09/20/2026
I am very sad to report that a fabulous occupational health nurse has passed.
Evelyn I. "Evie" Bain of Cranston, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Evie was the daughter of the late Milton and Harriet Irons and the stepdaughter of the late Lois Irons. She grew up in East Providence and was a proud graduate of East Providence High School, Rhode Island Hospital School of Nursing, Roger Williams University, and Rhode Island College, where she earned a Master's degree in Education.
Of all the roles she held throughout her life, none meant more to her than being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother. She is survived by her beloved children, Christina Yates and her husband Tom, Rob Bain and his wife Patty, and Steven Bain and his wife Christine. She was the proud grandmother of Lyndsey, Mackenzie, Tiana, Shaina, and Cameron, and cherished great-grandmother of six. She is also survived by her brother, William Irons; stepsister, Deborah Donald; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her sister Nan George and sister-in-law Mary Irons.
A proud nurse for more than five decades, Evie devoted her life to caring for others and improving the lives of working nurses. After beginning her career in long-term care, she became a leader in occupational health nursing, serving at The Catamore Company, operating her own consulting business, and later joining the Massachusetts Nurses Association. There, she championed safer working conditions for healthcare workers through education, advocacy, and legislative efforts addressing issues such as latex allergies, needlestick injuries, and workplace violence. Evie continued caring for others through her work at Mount St. Rita Health Centre, ultimately retiring at age 78 after a remarkable career dedicated to service.
Her work with the Massachusetts Nurses Association began with her first drive from Rhode Island into Boston, a small step that marked the beginning of a career of advocacy and lasting influence on nurses throughout New England and beyond.
Her expertise was recognized nationally and internationally, including being named a Fellow of the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, receiving the Dorothy Reid Lifetime Achievement Award, and serving as keynote speaker at the International Occupational Health Association Conference in Amsterdam in 2011. Characteristically humble, she viewed these honors simply as the result of doing work she loved.
When asked what led her into occupational health, Evie's answer reflected the conviction that guided her life: "I just knew the things that were happening were wrong, and I needed to do something."
Faith was a guiding force throughout Evie's life. A devoted member of St. David's-On-The-Hill Episcopal Church, she generously shared her time and talents in service to others. She was also a proud Sister of Mary Associate, an honor that meant a great deal to her.
Outside of her professional and volunteer work, Evie found joy in her gardens and in bringing people together. One of her favorite traditions was hosting the family's annual Cousins Day gathering after Christmas, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.
Evie leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, fierce loyalty, generous heart, and unwavering belief that one person could make a difference. Through her devotion to family, her advocacy for nurses, and her commitment to helping others, she touched countless lives and left the world better than she found it.
Her funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. David’s On-The-Hill Episcopal Church, 200 Meshanticut Valley Parkway, Cranston, RI. Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 21,2026 from 4-7 PM in the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. David’s On-The-Hill Episcopal Church, or a charity of your choice. Burial will be private.
