Warrine Helen (Joyce) Rooney

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Warrine Helen (Joyce) Rooney, 78, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, while in Asheville, North Carolina. Born on November 24, 1946, in New York City, Warrine led a beautiful life of family, travel, learning and quietly connecting with those who were lucky enough to cross paths with her.

Warrine loved reading, painting, drawing, dancing, gathering with friends and special time with her cherished canine companions over the years. Warrine remained an avid learner throughout her life. She attended several colleges achieving an advanced degree in School Psychology from George Mason University with follow-on studies at West Florida University. She taught at the college level in both Niceville and Melbourne, Florida. Warrine held a special passion for the psychology and educational development of children. She worked tirelessly as a School Psychologist for the Brevard County and Prince William County School Systems. And it would never be a surprise to anyone that Warrine could be found in a classroom, on a campus, at the church, or with interest groups adding to her endless fount of knowledge.

Warrine was a member of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Community. She had found her spiritual home. She continued to grow in her faith and spiritual understandings she simultaneously devoted herself to actively supporting the Church on its own growth journey. Warrine felt very connected and valued within the St. John's community and her joyful and warm companionship will be missed. 

Above all, family was always Warrine’s number one mission, love, and priority in life. She was the undeniable glue and master crafter in building the amazing, solid unit we are today. She was a supportive career Air Force wife to Colonel Thomas Rooney and leaves a legacy of love and compassion for others through her four children: Carlyne (William Pollan); Bob Rooney; Kyle Rooney; and Todd Rooney (Jennifer). She adored each of her grandchildren: Alex, Koren, Fletcher and Griffin. She was preceded in death by her parents Warren and Gladys Joyce and is survived by her sister Kristen Rae and a host of nieces, nephews and dear friends who were like family.

Although Warrine's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory always be a blessing and a reminder to carry on her legacy of compassion, family, love, and an unending pursuit of learning. The abrupt passing of Warrine has left a large hole in the lives she has touched. Let us honor her by coming together as family, friends, and community to aid in each other's healing.

Mass will take place on October 9, 2025, at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Melbourne Florida at 10:30 am with Rev. John Britto Antony as celebrant.

Interment will follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery at 2:30 pm.