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Aila H. Jokilinna Prest, 75, of Narragansett, died peacefully at her home on Monday, May 4, 2026,surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Donald W. Prest. Born in Kuopio Finland, she was the daughter of the late Eino and Siiri (Kekalainen) Jokilinna.
She received her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and went on to build a remarkable career defined by compassion, dedication, and unwavering care for others. As a registered nurse, she touched countless lives through her work at South County Hospital and Visiting Nurse Services of Narragansett, where she was known not only for her clinical skills but also for her warmth and empathy towards others. She later served as Assistant Director of Nursing at Scalabrini and Scallop Shell Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers.
Aila was fluent in five languages and pursued studies at Oxford University and the University of Barcelona.
She found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially tending to her flower and vegetable gardens at her home, where she took pride in nurturing beauty and growth. She loved traveling the world, embracing new cultures and experiences with curiosity and enthusiasm. An active and spirited person, she enjoyed cross -country skiing and spending time outdoors and spending time with her beloved dogs, Hannah, Heidi and Bismark. Above all, she cherished time with her friends and family a good glass of wine.
Besides her loving and devoted husband of over 30 years she will be sadly missed by her children, Bradley Sjosten (April) of Portsmouth, RI, Kristine Bradley (Marc Festa) of Worcester, MA , Erica Clukies (Shannon Carpenter) of Jamestown, RI and stepmother of Donald G. Prest. She also leaves her brothers and sisters, Matti, Ira, Helena, Pauli, Paula and Tarja. She was the cherished Mummo of, Steven, Kelsey, Lucy, Ella, Chloe, Cammy, Kellan, Emma and Marin and great Mummo of Cameron and Chase.
Her funeral service will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00AM-11:00AM. Burial will follow in Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, RI.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hope Health Hospice, 1085 North Main St. Providence, RI 02904
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Aila H. Jokilinna Prest, please visit our floral store.
HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care
1085 North Main Street, Providence RI 02904
Web: https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/