Iona P. (Nowicki) Premo

AUBURN — Iona Pauline (Nowicki) Premo, 95, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, June 8, 2026.

Born in Dudley and raised in Webster, Iona was the daughter of the late Michael and Jeanette (Beffre) Nowicki (Shea). She attended Webster Public Schools and went on to enjoy a 40-year career in industrial manufacturing as an assembler. She later settled in Auburn, where she lovingly raised her family and built a life centered on family, friendship, and simple joys.

Iona will be deeply missed by her son, Gary A. Premo and his wife, Nadine, of Sutton; her daughter, Iona R. Sage and her husband, Peter, of Wells, Maine; her cherished grandchildren, Matthew Smalley and his wife, Ketty, Brandis Premo, and Jonathan Premo and his wife, Idhaly; her beloved great-grandchildren, Taylor Smalley and Ayden Premo; and her granddaughter by marriage, Michele Farrell.

In addition to her parents, Iona was predeceased by her brother, Robert Nowicki and his wife, Ellen; her sister, Rita Strzelewicz and her husband, Bernard; and her beloved grandson, Joseph Smalley.

Iona found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed bowling, playing cards, shopping, attending yard sales in search of a bargain, and challenging herself with 1,000-piece puzzles. Some of her most treasured memories were made vacationing with her family in Wells, Maine. Above all, she cherished time spent at home with those she loved. She also adored her faithful Shih Tzu companion, Benji.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers, Susan Berube, Faith Amaro, Patty Lindberg, and Michele Farrell, for their unwavering kindness, compassion, and dedicated care shown to Iona throughout her final years.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Calling Hour on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 929 Main Street, Worcester. Interment will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Iona's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.