In Loving Memory of Rosemarie Ann Cravens
February 11, 1948 – June 9, 2025
Surrounded by her loving family, Rosemarie (“Rosie”) peacefully departed this world. An effervescent soul filled with light and love, to know her was to love her. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend to many, Rosie was a radiant spirit—beautiful both inside and out.
A gifted artist, Rosie discovered her passion for painting as a young girl growing up in Queens, New York. Encouraged by the love and support of her parents, she nurtured her creativity throughout her life. It was in New York City that she met the love of her life, Ronald Cravens. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, eventually settling in the beautiful hills of New Hampshire, where they built a thriving jewelry business and raised their three daughters.
Intelligent, curious, and endlessly selfless, Rosie’s passions extended far beyond art. She was a dedicated steward of the Salisbury Historical Society, committed to preserving the stories and heritage of the town she held dear. Her spiritual life was deeply enriched by her connection to the Sant Bani Ashram, where she found joy, purpose, and community in service.
Rosie had a remarkable mind—few were surprised to learn she had a genius-level IQ—and a boundless thirst for knowledge. Whether the topic was science, philosophy, art, or gardening, Rosie always had something insightful to share. Her conversations left others feeling inspired, seen, and more curious about the world.
Rosie found beauty in so many things—ballroom dancing, music, poetry, flowers, and above all, family. Her spirited nature and magnetic presence left a lasting impression on all who met her. She and Ron shared a deep love of gardening, and together cultivated the land around their home. Today, it blooms with flowering shrubs and trees—a living testament to the woman who nurtured life in all its forms.
She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Anthony and Rose Martinez, and her cherished grandson, L.Cpl. Ian Lee Fain.
She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Ronald Cravens; her daughters Mary Aurora Fain, Eliza Sciacca, and Jane Cravens; her sons-in-law Mark Fain and Daniel Sciacca; and her grandchildren Darian Barry, Mia Sciacca, DJ Sciacca, and Gavin Fain.
Rosie will be missed deeply. Her legacy of love, creativity, and warmth lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of Rosie’s life will be held on August 2, 2025, at 2pm at the Sant Bani Ashram, 30 Ashram Road, Sanbornton, NH 03269. A Zoom link will be available for those who wish to attend virtually. Wearing bright colors is encouraged as we honor the vibrancy of her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Historical Society of Salisbury, NH, or the Sant Bani Ashram School, causes close to Rosie’s heart.
David Rapalyea Obituary
David Bourne Rapalyea, beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle passed away at his residence in Salisbury on February 11, 2026. David was born July 2, 1947 to Bergen B. and Florence B. Rapalyea in New York City, NY.
David earned a degree in Business Management and Economics from Franklin Pierce University in 1978. In 2008 he retired from Airport Operations at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.
David is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years Dora Lucia Rapalyea, daughters Lucia Rapalyea Dowden (Jonathan), Johanna Rapalyea, and grandchildren Xavier Burke and Alana Mailhot. He was predeceased by his daughter Lisa Bourne Rapalyea.
David was a 40 year member of the Salisbury Congregational Church where he served on various committees through the years. He was an active member of the Salisbury Historical Society and he had also served as Selectman and Treasurer for the Town of Salisbury.
American History and historical homes were of great interest to him. He was very proud of his home that was built in 1760 and it is one of the oldest homes in Salisbury.
Traveling with Dora through the United States and Canada in their 5th wheel camper gave David great joy. He logged over 50,000 miles enjoying family and many camping experiences.
David will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory can be given to the Franklin VNA (75 Chestnut St., Franklin, NH 03235), Salisbury Congregational Church (13 Franklin Rd., Salisbury, NH 03268), Salisbury Historical Society ( PO Box 263, Salisbury, NH 03268, or Salisbury Fire Department (273 Old Turnpike Road, Salisbury, NH 03268).
A memorial service will be held at Salisbury Congregational Church on April 25, 2026 at 11:00. A reception will follow at Salisbury Town Hall.