Winnie J. (Faro) Buonaiuto

Winnie J. (Faro) Buonaiuto, formerly of Warwick and Jupiter, Florida passed away on May 12, 2022. Born in Winthrop, Massachusetts, the daughter of the late Joseph J. Faro and Concetta (Friscia) Faro, she was raised in Medford, Massachusetts. She received her bachelor’s degree in nutrition from Framingham State College, then worked at the University of Rhode Island where she met her beloved husband of 65 years, the late Gustin Buonaiuto. They married in 1953, and eventually moved to Warwick, where they raised their family.

In 1964, she and her husband Gus founded Horizon Healthcare Corporation, opening two nursing facilities in Warwick: Greenwood House and Pawtuxet Village Nursing Homes. Together, they pioneered what is currently known as "assisted living" by opening West Bay Manor in 1972, followed by six additional Horizon Bay Senior Care assisted living facilities throughout Rhode Island. “Mrs. B” was not only the food service director, but was involved in all aspects of the operations, ensuring quality care for all residents. Ahead of her time, she helped manage and expand the business while also raising her very active five children.

Winnie and Gus enjoyed boating, golfing and traveling the world. They spent much of their time at their grandchildren’s athletic events and activities. Winnie was a gracious hostess, and always looked forward to entertaining friends and extended family. Holidays were particularly special, and she passed along many family traditions and wonderful memories to her grandchildren. Her house was open to all, and she was affectionately known as a “second Mom” or “Nana” to many. Winnie also enjoyed time spent with her friends playing bridge or golf, and was an avid reader. She was a former member of the East Greenwich Yacht Club, Jonathan’s Landing Golf Club and Warwick Country Club. 

Winnie is survived by her brother, A. Joseph Faro; her five children: Patricia  Buonaiuto, Michael Buonaiuto, Paul Buonaiuto, Jo Ann Buonaiuto, and  Linda Flanagan; her fourteen grandchildren: Jessica and J. Joseph  Langella; Daniel and Rachel Buonaiuto; Matthew, David and Emily  Buonaiuto; Jacqueline DeNuccio, Christina Fazzano, and Catherine  Amoriggi; Erica Shults, and William, Michael, and Megan Flanagan; and  eleven great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank all of Winnie’s devoted caregivers who supported her at home for several years, as well as the caring and attentive staff at Saint Elizabeth Community’s Green House Home 15.  Winnie’s children are grateful for the exceptional care she received, and for the compassion and kindness of these special individuals.

Due to concern over the rising number of covid cases, funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Winnie J.  Buonaiuto Memorial Fund, Saint Elizabeth Community, 2364 Post Road, Suite 100, Warwick, RI 02886.

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