Friends, family, and political leaders gathered Sunday at the Park Theatre to honor the life of Augusta Petrone, a Republican activist, donor, and fixture in New Hampshire’s civic and cultural life.
Hosted by former New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman Chris Ager, the “Celebration of Life” paid tribute to Petrone’s decades of public service, generosity, and warmth — qualities that those who knew her said transcended party lines.
“When politics can be so bitter, Augusta had none of it,” Ager said. “She treated everyone with dignity and respect, and it was noticed.”
Petrone, 88, died Aug. 1.
Former GOP Chair Chris Ager speaks at the “Celebration of Life” for Augusta Petrone.
Born March 10, 1937, at Mt. Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, Mass., Petrone earned a B.A. in government from Smith College and a Diplôme from the Sorbonne in Paris. She married then-Major Joseph C. Petrone, beginning a life of international service that took the couple to Fontainebleau, France; Fort Hood, Texas; Seoul, South Korea; the U.S. Embassy in Paris, where Joseph served as military attaché; and Geneva, Switzerland, where President Ronald Reagan appointed him as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.
Petrone was a prominent figure in New Hampshire politics. When she joined a super PAC supporting Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, the move was noted by The Wall Street Journal.
Ager recalled Petrone’s broad influence and generous spirit.
“Her legacy is one of joy and happiness,” he said. “Augusta touched a wide and diverse group of people in a wonderful way — from the Wine Club to Monadnock Music, this theater, Raylynmor Opera, her charter school, political organizations, and many more.”
Tributes came from across the political spectrum. Ager noted condolences from the Union Leader editorial board, Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, former Vice President Mike Pence, and President Trump.
“Augusta was a dear friend and a constant reminder of what leadership looks like,” said Gov. Kelly Ayotte. “Throughout her life, she carried herself with unmatched grace and decency, embodying the very values that define New Hampshire. Her example will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Ager also read a note from former Democratic Gov. John Lynch. “We are very fortunate to have met Augusta. What a wonderful woman! From touring the winery, which she started in her backyard, seeing her beautiful home, and appreciating the contributions she made to us and to the Bridges House. She and her husband, Joseph, made a positive difference in our lives and to the people of New Hampshire. She will be missed.”
Kate Day, former chair of the Cheshire County GOP, shared a story about meeting a garage door repairman at the county party headquarters a few years ago.
“Do you know the Petrones?” he asked her.
He told her he had been called to their home for a repair, and Augusta and Joe greeted him warmly, asking about his life. When he mentioned his military service and rolled up his sleeve to reveal a tattoo, they insisted he come in for coffee — which turned into lunch, which turned into afternoon tea.
“He told me he never made it to the garage door and had to come back to do the repair the next day,” Day said. “Whether it was a possible president of the United States or a repairman, Augusta treated everyone with the same graciousness and respect.”
In a final act of bipartisanship, Petrone left instructions that “in lieu of flowers, [she] requested friends donate at some level to their favorite U.S. political party.”
