In Memory of Candice Lee Destefani

It is with deep sadness that the most devastating turn of events has recently occurred for one of our own within our community of Woonsocket, R.I. At such a young age of only 34 years old, our beloved friend and family member, Candice DeStefani, passed away Wednesday night, December 11, 2019 in a tragic accident where she was hit by a car in North Smithfield, R.I. Leaving behind her 4-year-old son Major who was her everything, and the love of her life, her other half Sherron “Ron” to try to pick up the pieces and so suddenly have to live on without her.

Anyone who had the opportunity of getting to know or meet Candice can agree that she was one spit of fire and the memory of her will forever hold dear to our hearts. She always loved to take long drives no matter how long and far they were as long as she had good tunes to listen to. Anywhere she worked, from Showcase, Outback, Ho Kong, Brew and Cews and probably some I may have missed (I’m sorry),  her co-workers became friends and being a huge part of each other’s lives regularly, everyone would soon become family. I think anyone who had the opportunity to work with her can agree, shifts with her were so fun and lively, yet could get so crazy, as she was. If the walls could and would talk… Where her memory lives on, especially those she frequented, these places just won’t be the same without her. Some of us had lost touch with her throughout the years, as life can get so busy and hectic at times. But no matter the amount of time lost in between, she would always pick right back up where you left off. She would always take the time out of her day to check up on everyone she loved, reminding you she is always there for you, wish you a happy birthday probably every year, or if you ran into her she’d stop and having you talking for what seems like hours at a time. She loved being out with friends and family making memories and having the time of her life. She lived life to the fullest, and had so much life ahead of her.

Everyone who was so close to her can say she was someone so caring, kind, bubbly, sweet, whole-hearted, had a beautiful soul, upbeat, loud, super animated, hilarious, lovable, happy, had an infectious laugh, always jokes and laughter where she was present, but most importantly she was so loving, and an awesome mother who she gave her world to. She was like a sister some may have never had. You could never forget that voice and a smile that would light up the darkest room, lighting up the room wherever she went. The world will forever be a little dimmer without her contagious smile and energy. Always making everyone laugh and feel joy and happiness. You’d look forward to seeing her when you knew she’d be coming around. With one heck of a personality, it was one of the best and one you sure would never and will not forget. She had that personality that God put on this Earth to make everyone smile and laugh.  If you were having a bad day she made you feel better no matter what her day was like. She cared about everyone an always put others before herself. She had the purest heart and she lived life for what it was. She was the essence of what life should be. There were plenty of times she acted out her weirdness and she surely embraced it. She is one person you could meet once and never forget. As we are all allowed our rough days, she could be in your face and unapologetic about who she was, but also had the kindest heart and a warmth that just made you feel comfortable around her. Never letting anger take ahold of her for too long, she’d end up joking and laughing about her madness later. All you had to do was just give her some space and time to breathe and she’d be fine in no time. She would simply go above and beyond for anyone, and everything she’s done for us all has touched all of our hearts tremendously. This is a heartfelt loss on everyone’s mind.

Currently, there is a Christmas Drive for toys and other needs for Major to ease the weight off of his father’s shoulders while he continues to mourn. Major deserves the best Christmas and without a doubt will light up so bright, just like his mother, when he sees all the presents and goes to open them on Christmas. Many people have reached out seeking other options on providing help for them as we think ahead for their future. You are never truly prepared for anything like this. And in this particular circumstance, Ron was already not mentally or emotionally stable or prepared for this loss as he has lost three other loved ones this year: his best friend Pat, his younger brother Darren, and his grandmother Nellie. Most recently, his love of his life and mother of their son is sadly the fourth, leaving Ron as a single father to try and find a way to make ends meet. With the out pour of love, respect, sadness, and support for Candice, her family, and all those affected by her loss it is completely heartbreaking, yet so beautiful to see from everyone. She was loved by so many and in return had a love so hard for others. I’d like to take this time to create this fund for Major and Ron, in memory of Candice. Being around Christmas time, we especially want to make sure that everything is taken care of for their present and future needs. Whether it’s used to help Ron pay for bills, help with the care of Major, for opportunities in Major’s bright future, or even as an emergency fund for when money gets tight. From going to two incomes to just one in the blink of an eye is a financial hardship in itself. So by coming together as a community, we want to give as much support to them as this has affected their lives so suddenly. Prior to Candice passing, Ron expressed that they had talked about planning on moving, but wanted to hold off until after the holiday season. Currently the home they live in is not safe for Major, as there are mold issues in the home and now adding that the memory of her in that home is unsettling. Ron has the memory of Candice always telling him how much she loved the natural smell of him, her, and the baby, and Ron would like to keep that promise for her. A promise that he will move in somewhere with a nice natural smell and a fresh start and beginning to a new year. Major and Ron deserve this.

Please let’s find comfort in each other during this time and remember tomorrow is never promised. Let’s promise to keep Candice’s memory alive and make sure Major always is reminded of how great of a woman and mother she was. She will be dearly missed. Please remember to keep Ron and Major in your thoughts and in your prayers. Hold the ones you love tightly and always let them know how much you love them.

Rest in the sweetest peace Candice. We all love and miss you dearly.