Arnao, Jean E.
By Canton CitizenJean Ellen Arnao (née Ashley), 93, passed away peacefully at Silverado Memory Care in Frederick, Maryland, on July 24, 2025.
Jean was a longtime resident of Canton, where she and her husband of almost 62 years, Francis (Frank) Arnao, lived until he passed on May 15, 2021. Jean is survived by her daughter, Heidi Arnao, of Hagerstown, MD, and her family, Dr. Mark Madison, Madeline, André and Theodore Madison, and her son Scott Arnao of Denver, CO, and his family, Elvie and Elena Skaro. Additionally, she leaves many nieces, nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.
Jean was born on March 14, 1932, and grew up on a farm in Dorchester, NH, with her parents, Herbert A. Ashley and Phyllis A. Ashley (née Bean) with her two younger sisters, Nancy Byrne and Blanche MacDonald. She graduated from Newport High School (NH) and Massachusetts Memorial School of Nursing in Boston, where she met Frank. For many years she was an RN in the Labor and Delivery Department of Quincy City Hospital. She also was a licensed real estate broker, even going into business with her mother at one point.
Jean had an infectious laugh, was always smiling, and was quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. She loved her family dearly and adored her grandchildren, who she treasured spending time with and making memories. They were her light. A proud New Englander, Jean traveled the world and embarked on many adventures with her family, always a good sport. She loved spending time on Cape Cod and walking on the beach. Jean was a dedicated member of the Congregational Church of Canton, where she volunteered and worshiped for over 65 years. Jean enjoyed gardening and took great pride in their restored historic home on Washington Street, where she and Frank entertained regularly.
A memorial service will be held later this fall. Online condolences can be posted at bit.ly/4mxaKDQ. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made “In Memory of Jean Arnao” to: Congregational Church of Canton, 1541 Washington St., Canton, MA 02021.
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=132102
Posted by Canton Citizen
on Aug 14 2025. Filed under Obituaries.
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