Edward J. Rooney
Date of Passing:
Edward J. Rooney, affectionately known as “Ted” or “Teddy,” passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, at the age of 93. Born on April 10th, 1931, in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Anna (Rigby) Rooney and James Clement Rooney of Warwick, Rhode Island.
Ted’s passion for creativity led him to the Rhode Island School of Design in 1948, where he studied advertising with a major in illustration. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1952. In 1955 he relocated to Greenwich Village, New York City where he would live for the next 64 years, pursuing a successful career as an artist. His career there spanned diverse roles designing illustrations and layouts for major department stores, newspapers, and marketing firms. In his free time, Ted loved to paint trinket boxes, as well as rocks that he collected from walks along the beach. Each year, family and friends would also eagerly await the arrival of his hand-drawn Christmas Cards.
Having a love of words, Ted charmed those around him with his dry sense of humor, quick wit, and playful puns. He possessed a remarkable memory and was known for recounting stories of both friends and family over his many years. As a lifelong bachelor, Ted was well-traveled, enjoying time spent with friends across Europe. In his early years he made transatlantic crossings on the SS Liberté and the RMS Queen Mary. He also cherished time in Newport RI, Block Island, Cape Cod, and Fire Island.
Along with travel, Ted was also a passionate collector. He had a particular fondness for French art and antiques which reflected his keen eye for both beauty and craftsmanship. This was exhibited in his Fifth Avenue NYC apartment which often took center stage for department store and magazine photoshoots.
Ted is preceded in death by his sister Margaret (Rooney) Costa, and brothers John and Jim Rooney. He leaves behind many generations of nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly and cherish the many memories they shared.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday October 30, 2024 in St. Paul’s Church, 30 Warwick Avenue, Cranston at 10 a.m. Calling Hours will be held in the church beginning at 9:15 a.m. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Paul’s Church Restoration Campaign. Donations can be made online at bit.ly/spdonate2024 or mailed to:
Saint Paul Church Restoration Campaign:
1 St. Paul Place
Cranston, RI 02905
When I was growing up in Pawtucket, RI, my mother Anne Louise Treacy (McGill – married name) spoke fondly about her cousin Teddy Rooney. In fact, she stayed in touch with him until she passed away nine years ago. I had the good fortunate to get to know him about twenty-five years ago. I visited NYC for an annual conference and stayed one block from his home. We shared many meals together. Teddy also sent Christmas cards to us for many years, too. He was very special!
Rose Maclure I want his nieces and nephews to know that I went to his home when we were both children. My mother margaret Treacy was his aunt. We went each Sunday and watched teddy draw in his little bedroom. My father Edward, loved to take us there. It would make my mother so happy. Aunt Anna was such a good woman. She was a wonderful mother. You people must remember her. Thank you for bringing him to st. Antoine’s. I live in Cumberland and talk to Ted once in a while. Tried to find him after he moved away ..but now I know the rest of the story. God bless you all.