Obituary of Jean A. Raposa

Longtime professional horsewoman Jean Ann Raposa ("Jeannie", "Gram") passed away from complications of multiple myeloma at Faxton-St. Luke's Hospital on July 22, 2016 with her family at her side. She was 73. Jean was born on June 17, 1943, in Newport, Rhode Island, to the late Everett J. Woods and Jean A. Woods. She was also raised and educated in Newport. From an early age Jean had a great love for horses and her passion went on to become her life work. When she was young, she worked at a nearby stable in exchange for time to ride. Shortly thereafter, she was training and showing horses. She began earning a living by teaching riding lessons – her lifelong career. In 1975, Jean and her husband at the time, Joseph Raposa, traveled with their kids from Florida to work at Tantivy Farm on Old Bristol Road, Clinton, New York. They established White Fox Farm in 1979. In February 1980, the Raposa family moved the business to its current location on Craig Road, Clinton. Jean owned and operated White Fox Farm for nearly 40 years. She lived her life for her children, grandchildren, and the farm. Jean took great pride in her students and all of their accomplishments. She was tough and determined to teach true horsemanship to each of her riders, while building a family at the barn. Some of Jean's students were children and grandchildren of people she taught years ago. Jean was a fighter and taught riding lessons up until the day before her most recent hospitalization on July 4th. Some of her favorite times were spent driving around on her golf cart, trail riding, skiing, telling stories, and visiting Newport with her grandkids. But, most of all, she loved the simple days on the farm with family and friends. Jean is survived by her two children, David Raposa, and his wife, Kara; Kimberley Storey, and her husband, David; her five grandchildren, Nicole Storey, Schaefer Raposa, Riley Raposa, Davis Storey, and Conner Raposa. She also leaves behind her six siblings whom she loved dearly, Mary Ellen Atkins, Everett (Joe) Woods, Peter Woods, Donn Woods, Elizabeth (Liz) Sylvia, and Margaret (Meg) Kimmett; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her beloved friend Robert J. Moffat. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at St. Mary's Church, 28 Marvin Street, Clinton, at 10:00am. Following mass there will be a gathering to celebrate Jean's life at White Fox Farm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Danny & Ron's Rescue, PO Box 604, Camden, SC. Jean's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of her special friends, customers, students, and her farm help who continuously provided support over the years. She is truly blessed to have had you in her life. A cowgirl at heart who will be missed by all.