Those We Lost in 2021 in Rhode Island and Around the World

Former U.S. Congressman Eddie Beard Passes Away

Jan 14, 2021

Providence, Rhode Island native Eddie Beard — a former United States Congressman — has passed away. 

He was 80 years old. 

Beard, who worked as a house painter before entering politics, began his political career as a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives, serving from 1972 to 1974. 

Beard was elected to the U. S. House of Representatives in 1974, and served three terms.

He served as chairman of the House Committee on Labor Standards. His bid for re-election in 1980 was unsuccessful when he lost to Claudine Schneider, Rhode Island's only woman elected to Congress.

Beard later served as director of elderly affairs for the City of Providence, Rhode Island, from 1986 to 2002.

“It is with great sadness that we join other Rhode Islanders in offering our deepest sympathy to the family of the late U.S. Representative Edward 'Eddie' P. Beard on his recent passing,” said Rhode Island Democratic Party Chairman Joseph McNamara. 

“He was a dedicated public servant – a three-term Rhode Island congressman; former member of the Rhode Island National Guard during the time of the Vietnam War; and a past Providence director of elderly services. He was known and beloved for his ‘average joe’ point of view, for his legendary coat-pocket paintbrush, and for his opinions as a popular, area talk-show host,” he continued. 

“Eddie’s passion to serve, whether in government, the military, or on the air, earned him the deep respect and lasting friendship of so many. He will be missed,” McNamara said.  

O'Halloran, T. J., photographer. (1975) Portrait of congressman Edward Beard with paintbrush., 1975. February 6. [Photograph]

Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/2017647508/.

Baseball Home Run Legend Hank Aaron Dies at 86

Jan 22, 2021

Baseball legend Hank Aaron — who transcended sports — has died at 86. 

The Atlanta Braves, with whom Aaron played the majority of his career, confirmed his death on Friday in a message from its chairman, Terry McGuirk. 

See Braves Post BELOW

Aaron, one of the greatest all-around players in baseball history, surpassed Babe Ruth as home-run king, hitting 755 home runs and holding the record for more than thirty years. 

Aaron was one of the last major league stars to have played in the Negro leagues, the New York Times reported on Friday.

"But his pursuit of Ruth’s record of 714 home runs proved a deeply troubling affair beyond the pressures of the ball field,” the NYT continued. “When he hit his 715th home run, on the evening of April 8, 1974, against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, he prevailed in the face of hate mail and even death threats spewing outrage that a Black man could supplant a white baseball icon.”

Aaron was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982 in his first year of eligibility, when he received 97.8 percent of the vote from baseball writers, — second at the time only to Ty Cobb, who was inducted in 1936.

He was a two-time National League batting champion and had a career batting average of .305. He was the league’s most valuable player in 1957, when the Milwaukee Braves won their only World Series championship. 

Aaron was voted an All-Star in all but his first and last seasons, and he won three Gold Glove awards for his play in right field.

Larry King Dies at 87

Jan. 23, 2021

Larry King’s family announced that the broadcasting legend has died.

Three weeks ago he was hospitalized for treatment of the coronavirus.

“With profound sadness, Ora Media announces the death of our co-founder, host, and friend Larry King, who passed away this morning at 87.”

The statement said, "For 63 years and across the platforms of radio, television and digital media, Larry's many thousands of interviews, awards, and global acclaim stand as a testament to his unique and lasting talent as a broadcaster. Additionally, while it was his name appearing in the shows' titles, Larry always viewed his interview subjects as the true stars of his programs, and himself as merely an unbiased conduit between the guest and audience. Whether he was interviewing a U.S. president, foreign leader, celebrity, scandal-ridden personage, or an everyman, Larry liked to ask short, direct, and uncomplicated questions. He believed concise questions usually provided the best answers, and he was not wrong in that belief."

Former Owner of Gregg’s Restaurant, Edmund D. “Ted” Fuller III Dies

Jan. 25, 2021

Edmund D. Fuller III, 86, better known as “Ted” by his family and friends, was a native of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and the former owner of Gregg’s Restaurants and Taverns.

Mr. Fuller passed away January 24, 2021, in North Palm Beach, Florida, after a short illness. Ted leaves behind his beloved wife, Kristine Kelleher Fuller, his sister, Janice Gaudreau, niece Jennifer (Gaudreau) Kumar, and nephew William (Bill) Gaudreau.

Ted will be remembered for his kind heart, love for adventure, his extensive philanthropy, his visionary entrepreneurship, and mentor to many.

Ted’s adventures began early by earning his pilot’s license before 20 years of age. He was an avid sailor and loved spending time on Narraganset Bay and the waters off Newport with family and friends. Ted also had a love for cars. Ted was the ultimate gentleman, calm and poised, and a true role model for so many.

Ted began his career, working for his father, running a small Rhode Island chain, “Donut Kettle.”  After Army service and time working for his father and IMAC Food Systems, he opened Ted’s Big Boy Restaurants in 1964.

Ted purchased Gregg's in Warwick in 1972 transforming a small local eatery that was in receivership into a Rhode Island institution known for quality food, excellent customer service, and amazing desserts. Under Ted’s leadership, Gregg’s one restaurant in Warwick expanded to three additional restaurants across the state and a commissary. Frustrated by the lack in restaurant technology, Ted and his late brother Bill, created POSitouch, the first of its kind point of sale system featuring a touch screen. Today, Restaurant Data Concepts, Inc., the company that markets POSitouch, is an internationally renowned company leading the field in restaurant technology innovation.

Ted’s vision was to create a culture of community for the hospitality industry in Rhode Island. In 1988 along with other business owners, Ted re-established the RI Hospitality Association which has served as the voice of the hospitality industry in Rhode Island for the past thirty-two years. Ted's influence helped to shape and mold one of the state’s largest industries. His legacy of community and service continues to this day. Ted was awarded an honorary Doctor of Business Administration in Food Service Management at Johnson & Wales University at the University’s commencement ceremony on May 24, 2003.

In 1995, Ted and his wife Kris created the Gregg’s Giving Tree Fund: a holiday tradition that donates Christmas gifts to children, seniors, and other Rhode Islanders in need. Gregg's has continued the Giving Tree Fund tradition yearly touching thousands of Rhode Islander’s lives. A loyal benefactor of Hasbro Children’s Hospital and The Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, the Fullers raised funds for these organizations through proceeds from the restaurants' “Giving Cake” sales.

Actor Christopher Plummer, Star of “The Sound of Music” & Oscar Winner, Dies at 91

Feb. 5, 2021

Actor Christopher Plummer has died at age 91.

CNN confirmed the passing of the actor, well-known for his role as Captain Von Trapp starring alongside Julie Andrews in “The Sound of Music,” with the following statement

"Chris was an extraordinary man who deeply loved and respected his profession with great old fashion manners, self-deprecating humor and the music of words," his longtime friend and manager Lou Pitt said in his statement to CNN. "He was a national treasure who deeply relished his Canadian roots. Through his art and humanity, he touched all of our hearts and his legendary life will endure for all generations to come."

Plummer's Career

Plummer won a supporting actor Academy Award for his role in the 2010 film "Beginners," and was nominated again as recently as 2018 for "All the Money in the World” as billionaire J. Paul Getty.

He also started as newsman Mike Wallace in "The Insider," and had roles in “Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country" and provided the voice of the villain in the Pixar animated movie "Up."

The Toronto, Canada-born Plummer also had an accomplished stage career, winning Tony Awards for his work in "Cyrano" and "Barrymore" nearly 25 years apart. 

Plummer began his Broadway career in the 1950s, appearing in a number of theatrical and screen productions before "The Sound of Music," later appearing with his co-star Julie Andrews  in a 2001 CBS movie version of the film "On Golden Pond."

Photo: CreativeCommons/GDC Graphics

Decorated WWII Veteran, Longtime Barrington Girls Tennis Coach Anelundi Passes Away

Feb. 7, 2021

Edmund “Eddie” T. Anelundi, (EPFD ret.) age 93, formerly of Connors Lane, Riverside, passed peacefully on January 31, 2021 at his granddaughter’s home with his family by his side listening to a tennis match on the television. He was the husband of the late Jacqueleen (Trenn) Anelundi. He was born July 18, 1927 in East Providence, a son of the late Michael and Giovannina “Jennie” (Solitto) Anelundi.

Eddie graduated from East Providence High School and was All-State in Basketball, Cross Country, Track and Field. He played basketball for the URI Rams until he entered the US Navy where he proudly served our country during WWII on the USS Merrick Navy Ship. He was a recipient of the WWII Victory Medal and American Area Medal. Following his service, he became a firefighter with the East Providence Fire Department where he drove the ladder truck and retired in 1975. He was owner and teacher of the Indoor Tennis Court for 17 years and was one of the first Certified Professional Tennis Coaches in RI. 

He was head coach of the Barrington High School Girls Tennis Team starting in 1994, bringing them to win three State Championships and was consistently ranked among the premier Division I programs: earning him an induction into the Tennis Coaches Hall of Fame. Some of his most cherished memories were teaching Summer Programs at St. Andrews School and assisting with coaching the LaSalle Academy Girls Tennis Team until his retirement from tennis at 89 years old. Eddie, an octogenarian was inducted into the East Providence High School Hall of Fame in 2012.” Better late than never” was the sentiment repeated throughout the city amongst his friends, family and colleagues.

He was the loving father of Judith Anelundi of Whitesboro, TX and his late son Edmund F. Anelundi (ret. Captain EPFD). He was the devoted grandfather of Christopher and Querima Anelundi of Temple, TX, Jennifer and Aaron Bergeron of Warwick RI, Bethany and Jason Pires of Swansea, MA, his great-grandchildren; Callen, Kaitlyn, Courtney, Aleshia, Jaden, Ethan and great-great-grandchildren; Amelia: “Leashy” and Noah. He was the brother of Michael Anelundi of Rehoboth, MA and Robert Anelundi of Seekonk, MA and is survived by many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Marie Armington.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at 10am in Our Lady of Loreto Church, Waterman Ave., East Providence, RI. Burial is Private. Calling Hours are omitted.

Please omit flowers, contributions may be made to Amedisys Foundation, c/o Beacon Hospice, 1130 Ten Rod Road, N. Kingstown, RI 02852

Social distancing and wearing of face masks are required. www.rebellofuneralhome.com

ESPN Star Baseball Reporter Pedro Gomez Dies Unexpectedly at 58

Feb. 8, 2021

ESPN announced Sunday night that star baseball reporter Pedro Gomez died unexpectedly at age 58.

He had been an ESPN reporter since 2003 and he was recognized as one of the top baseball journalists in America.

ESPN reported, "Gomez, who was based in Phoenix, covered baseball for SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight and other ESPN studio shows, live events and radio. During his 35-year career, he covered more than 25 World Series and more than 20 All-Star Games.”

"We are shocked and saddened to learn that our friend and colleague Pedro Gomez has passed away," said Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN and Sports Content. "Pedro was an elite journalist at the highest level and his professional accomplishments are universally recognized. More importantly, Pedro was a kind, dear friend to us all. Our hearts are with Pedro's family and all who love him at this extraordinarily difficult time."

Gomez is survived by his wife, Sandra; sons, Rio and Dante; and daughter, Sierra.

"Pedro was far more than a media personality," his family said in a statement. "He was a dad, loving husband, loyal friend, coach and mentor. He was our everything and his kids' biggest believer."

Gomez's son Rio is a pitcher in the Boston Red Sox organization.

Longtime Warwick City Councilman Gallucci Passes Away

Feb. 8, 2021

Longtime Warwick City Councilman Joe Gallucci has passed away.

Warwick Mayor Frank Picozzi posted a tribute to Gallucci, who represented Ward 8. 

Tribute to Gallucci

Picozzi shared the following. 

"Today Warwick lost a legend in our city’s government. Joseph (Joe) Gallucci passed away last night. 

Joe served as clerk of the board of canvassers, Director of the Department of Human Services and his stalwart position representing Ward 8 – a post he held three separate times from 1977 to 1984, from 1990 to 1994 and then again from 2015 until his final year in 2018. 

Gallucci also worked at the department of business regulations for the state of Rhode Island and is on the board of the Kent County Water Authority. He is a veteran of the Rhode Island Army National Guard.

Everyone that’s been around the city government has a Joe Gallucci story that they’ll remember fondly. I knew Joe for many years. He was soft spoken but spoke eloquently and in an authoritative manner that compelled people to listen. He was always impeccably dressed and his hair coiffed perfectly.

Several days after I was elected Joe sent me a beautiful fruit basket and enclosed a letter. In the letter he said that he had voted for me and that he had always believed and said that an Italian-American could never get elected in Warwick. He said he and his family were so proud of me for being the first.

Tomorrow I’m going to order all city flags to be flown at half staff until after his funeral.

Rest In Peace Joe."

Photo: Warwick City Hall, Creative Commons, Kenneth Zirkel

Mary Wilson of The Supremes Dies at 76

Feb. 9, 2021

Mary Wilson, one of the original members of the superstar trio The Supremes, has died at 76.

The New York Times reports, "Ms. Wilson’s death was confirmed by her publicist, Jay Schwartz. No cause of death was given"

The Supremes, whose original members included Florence Ballard and Diana Ross as the lead singer, released hit songs such as “Where Did Our Love Go?” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me” and “Stop.”

Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, called Ms. Wilson a “trailblazer” who will be missed. He said in a statement that the Supremes had opened doors for other Motown acts.

“I was always proud of Mary,” Mr. Gordy said in the statement. “She was quite a star in her own right, and over the years continued to work hard to boost the legacy of the Supremes.”

Rush Limbaugh Dies at 70 Following Battle With Cancer

Feb. 17, 2021

Conservative radio and television personality Rush Limbaugh has died at 70.

In February 2020, Limbaugh had announced he was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. 

Limbaugh's wife Kathryn made the announcement of his passing on his radio show Wednesday.

"As so many of you know, losing a loved one is terribly difficult, even more so when that loved one is larger than life," she said. "Rush will forever be the greatest of all time."

Limbaugh’s Career

“A pioneer of AM talk-radio, Limbaugh for 32 years hosted "The Rush Limbaugh Show," a nationally-syndicated program with millions of loyal listeners that transfigured him into a partisan force and polarizing figure in American politics,” reported CNN.

“In many ways, his radio show was like the big bang of the conservative media universe. ‘TheRush Limbaugh Show’ helped popularize the political talk-radio format and usher in a generation of conservative infotainment.”

Limbaugh's bio on his website stated the following.

Rush Limbaugh, the “Doctor of Democracy,” is known as the pioneer of AM radio. Limbaugh revolutionized the media and political landscape with his unprecedented combination of serious discussion of political, cultural and social issues along with satirical and biting humor, which parodies previously “untouchable” personalities and topics. His passion inspires millions of Americans to be the best they can be and keeps the country on course to a bright future.

In 1988, Rush launched his phenomenally successful radio broadcast, The Rush Limbaugh Show, into national syndication with 56 radio stations. Now, 32 years later, the show is heard on more than 600 stations by up to 27 million people each week and is the highest-rated national radio talk show in America. On February 5, 2020, at the State of the Union Address, President Donald Trump awarded Rush the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor. Rush has also received the Marconi Radio Award five times, and has been inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians, the Radio Hall of Fame and the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Photo: Wikipedia/Limbaugh_Award.jpg: Nicolas Shayko/derivative work: Connormah

Federal Hill Commerce Association President D’Uva Passes Away

Feb. 18, 2021

Federal Hill Commerce Association (FHCA) President Robert D’Uva has passed away. 

D’Uva was the publisher and created of The Rhode Island Echo, and owner of the Federal Hill Gazette. 

The Commerce Association issued a statement at his passing. 

“It is with heavy hearts , that we learned of the passing of Robert D’Uva Pres of FHCA & RI Echo. Bob always had a deep commitment to the hill. He will be missed , though his legacy will continue on,” said the FHCA Board of Directors. 

Providence-Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau President Kirsten Adamo also expressed her condolences. 

“My sincere sympathy to the family of Bob D’Uva and to the folks on @FederalHillRI. Bob was a tireless champion for the neighborhood and the Italo-American community here in RI,” she said. “I will miss the ever-present twinkle in his eye.”

Rhode Island Judge Alton Wiley Passes, First Black Judge in RI History

Feb. 18, 2021

Former Rhode Island Judge Alton Wiley passed away at the age of 91.

Wiley was the first Black judge to sit on the Rhode Island District and Superior courts.

"As a jurist, a civic leader, and all around gentleman, he gave so much to our community and made Rhode Island a better place," said United States Senator Jack Reed at Wiley's passing. "We are forever grateful to the Wiley family and their legacy of service and equal rights and opportunity for all."

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"I was saddened to hear of Judge Wiley's passing. A veteran, a brilliant legal mind, and RI’s first Black judge, he helped pave the way for a new generation of talented, diverse lawyers to serve on our courts. I'm keeping his family in my thoughts during this difficult time," said Governor Gina Raimondo.

Providence City Council President Sabina Matos issued the following statement at his passing. 

"I am saddened to learn of the passing of the Honorable Superior Court Judge Alton Wiley, an accomplished jurist and a man who broke down barriers.

Judge Wiley's role as the first black judge to sit on the Rhode Island District and Superior Courts was proof that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Not only did he break barriers, but he served the State of Rhode Island for decades with integrity, intellect, and allegiance to the law.

It is public servants like him who value virtue, equality, and opportunity that make the State of Rhode Island such a wonderful place to be. He will be sorely missed by all those who knew him."

CCRI Great and Former Red Sox Pitcher Rheal Cormier Dies at 53

March 9, 2021

The Philadelphia Phillies announced Rheal Cormier, the left-hander who spent 16 seasons in the majors, has died of cancer at age 53 of cancer.

Cormier was a star pitcher at CCRI and once lived in a third-floor apartment in Woonsocket during his college career. 

At CCRI he earned All-American honors in 1987 and 1988.

One of his biggest achievement was how well he pitched in the Olympics before and after his time in the big leagues, 

According to ESPN:

Cormier owned a neat nook in Phillies history: He was the winning pitcher in the final game that Philadelphia won at Veterans Stadium in 2003, and also was the winner in the first game the Phils won after moving into Citizens Bank Park in 2004.

Overall, he was 71-64 with two saves and a 4.03 ERA with St. Louis, Boston, Montreal, Philadelphia and Cincinnati. A member of the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Cormier pitched 683 games -- among his countrymen, only Paul Quantrill (841) pitched more in the majors.

Cormier made other prominent appearances on the mound, too.

Three years before his big league debut, he pitched for Canada in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Then in 2008, a year after his final game in the majors, he again threw for Canada in the 2008 Beijing Games -- he tuned up for the event by tossing in a men's senior league.

"Rheal was one of the most vibrant people I've had the pleasure of knowing," former teammate and Hall of Famer Jim Thome said in a statement released by the Phillies. "He loved baseball, but he always put his family first."

"Frenchy was the kind of guy who would do anything for you and I'm lucky to have called him my friend for many years. Our time spent together in Philadelphia as teammates was unforgettable. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten," Thome said.

Cormier went 8-0 with a 1.70 ERA in 65 games for the Phillies in 2003. 

Boxing Great Marvelous Marvin Hagler Dies at 66

March 14, 2021

Boxing great Marvin Hagler has died at the age of 66.

His wife Kay took to his fan page on Facebook to announce the news on Saturday. 

“I am sorry to make a very sad announcement,” wrote Hagler. “Today unfortunately my beloved husband Marvelous Marvin passed away unexpectedly at his home here in New Hampshire. Our family requests that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.”

Hagler was the undisputed middleweight boxing champion from 1980 to 1987, and legally changed his name to “Marvelous Marvin Hagler.”

After his boxing career, Hagler moved to Italy, where he became a well-known star of action films. His roles included a U.S. Marine in the films Indio and Indio 2, and starred in 1997’s Virtual Weapon. 

Hagler in Rhode Island

Hagler started off his professional boxing career in New England, beating Terry Ryan at the Brockton High School gym in Massachusetts in 1973.

His first Rhode Island appearance was a win over DC Walker at the Schneider Arena in North Providence in 1976.

He beat Canadian Jim Henry at Brown’s Marvel Gymnasium in 1977, American Bob Patterson at the Providence Civic Center in 1979, and Wilford Scypion again at the Civic Center in 1983 — in a knockout. 

Rhode Island musician Mark Cutler met Hagler in Boston.

"Rest In Peace, Marvin Hagler," wrote Cutler. "The Schemers met him in the early ’80s on the set of a 5 All Night in Boston. He treated us real fine and his shoulders were as wide as he was tall."

Cranston Athletic Hall of Famer, Korean War Vet, John Albert Leonard, Dies at 90

March 24, 2021

John Albert Leonard, 90 passed away Thursday, March 18, 2021, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Nancy A. (Winpenny) Leonard for 50 years.

Born in Brockton, MA, he was the son of the late Ulmont Stanley and Sarah Lillian (Soder) Leonard. John was the loving father of Susan Elizabeth Ackerman (Casey), Scott Leonard (Paula), and Sandra Lee Campion (David). Loving grandfather of Willow, Zoe, Winter, and James John (JJ). Brother of Edward S. Leonard (Theresa) and the late Robert T. Leonard (Jean). He was also the uncle to 20 nieces and nephews.

John was a graduate of Springfield College with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education and had a Master’s in Education from Rhode Island College. He was a health and physical education teacher at Park View Junior High School in Cranston for 33 years and CCRI in Warwick for 17 years before retiring.

He was the tennis coach at Cranston High School East for 17 years and during that time the Thunderbolts won 6 State Championships from 1964-1969; they won 2 straight New England Championships in 1967 & 1968, and they won a remarkable 71 consecutive tennis matches. For his outstanding record as a tennis coach and contributions to high school sports John was inducted into the Cranston Athletic Hall of Fame and the Rhode Island Tennis Coaches Hall of Fame.

In 1978, The Rhode Island Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation awarded John the Outstanding Teacher Award. In 1992 the Park View Tennis courts were dedicated and named the “John A. Leonard Tennis Courts”.

In December 1999 a Providence Journal article named John as One of the 100 Most Significant People in RI High School Sports in the 20th century. In 2019 the Rhode Island Tennis Coaches awarded him a Lifetime Achievement award.

He was a Korean War Veteran serving from 1951-1954. John served in the Army 25th Infantry Division Signal Corp delivering messages to the front line. He finished his military career as a drill sergeant at Fort Gordon in Augusta, GA. John was excited in 2019 to have the distinguished honor to participate in the Honor Flight “Whiskey” to Washington DC for his dedication and faithful service to the United States of America.

John affectionately called himself “Good Natured John” and was so charming and loved by friends and family throughout his life. He was dedicated, enthusiastic, and committed to the instruction and development of thousands of students. He coached nine different youth sports and spent many summers teaching tennis for the city of Warwick Recreation Department.

In addition to coaching, he also enjoyed participating in auditions for local movie opportunities and can be seen in the party scenes in the Great Gatsby and Meet Joe Black.

He courageously battled Parkinson’s Disease for many years and was so brave with his journey. He found a love of boxing and was Jimmy Birchfield’s CES boxing and MMA’s biggest fan. No one loved sports more than John who especially loved all New England teams and never missed watching the Masters.

Reverend Sam Chesser, Warwick Central Baptist Church (WCBC) will be delivering private funeral prayers as we memorialize John who was a member of the WCBC church for 40+ years.

Korean War Vet & Renowned Barber, Philip “Phil the Barber” Sabella, Dies at 91

March 30, 2021

Philip “Phil the Barber” Sabella, 91, of Pascoag passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, March 27th. He was the beloved husband of Carol (Stevens) Sabella. They have been married for 48+ years.

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Nichola and Amelia (Testa) Sabella. He had lived in Pascoag for over 60 years previously living in Smithfield.

Phil served his country honorably in the US Army during the Korean War. He had owned several retail businesses in Greenville (Prestige Shop, Pace Setter Job Lot) as well as being a renowned barber (Phil’s Barber Shop). Phil was a NASCAR racing enthusiast/memorabilia collector, loved snow skiing, adored his coy pond, boating, and spending Sunday afternoons with his family at Pascoag Lake; otherwise, he was frequently found joking around with his many close friends or handling a project around his home or at the store.

He served as a board member of the Greenville Water District, a member of the Smithfield Zoning Board, an active Democratic Party Town Committee Member, a Grand Knight (Knights of Columbus), and an active member of the Korean War Veterans Association. Phil loved all New England sports teams and never missed watching a NASCAR race.

He was the loving father of Steven P. Sabella and his wife Susan of Charlestown, and Sharon Toner and her husband Frank of Narragansett; step-father of Donna (Menard) Shulze and her husband Albert of Springfield, MA, Michelle (Menard) Allaire and her husband Phillip of Putnam, CT, Diane (Menard) Verrocchio of Caldwell, ID and Guy S. Menard of Coventry; like a father to Linda (Wicklund) Schilling and her husband Fred; devoted grandfather of Christian Menard, Renee Salgado and her husband Joshua, Jordan Shulze, Brendan Connolle, Adam Segee and his wife Leigh-Ann, Kyle Segee, Travis Segee and his wife Heather, Michael Toner and his wife Joy, Amanda Toner, and John Toner; beloved brother of Tina (Sabella) Tellier, Mary (Sabella) Wicklund and brother-in-law to Joan (Ducharme) Sabella.

Phil was also survived by many wonderful nieces and was ‘Pop-Pop’ to twelve great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas “Nick” Sabella, his brothers-in-law, Ronald Tellier and Weston Wicklund, his nieces Nicole (Sabella) McConnell and Sandra Wicklund, and his grandson LTjg. Francis L. “Frankie” Toner, IV, CEC, USN (KIA).
 

Founding Member of Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe, Lois “Lulu” Chaffee, Dies at 79

April 2, 2021

Lois “Lulu” E. (Viera) Chaffee, 79, of Seekonk,  passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on Sunday, March 28, 2021.

She was the beloved wife of the late Almont “Red” M. Chaffee, Jr. Born in Attleboro, she was a daughter of the late Anthony, Sr., and Louise (Elderkin) Viera.

Lois worked for many years at the former Swank, Inc. in Attleboro. She enjoyed crocheting, adult coloring books, and spending time with her family. Lois was also a founding member and former clan mother of the Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe.

She will be lovingly remembered by all whose lives she has touched over the past seventy-nine years.

Lois leaves five children, Cindy Tetreault and her husband, Gary, of Attleboro, Sheila Pacheco of Seekonk, Sharon Perry and her husband, Joseph, Jr., of Seekonk, Timothy Chaffee and his wife, Melissa, of Warwick and Lynne Chaffee of Seekonk and her companion, John, of East Providence; five grandchildren, James Kelley, Kaitlyn Noonan, Ryan Kelley, Courtney and Timothy Chaffee; three great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kylie and Dilan; a sister, Betty Lemieux and her husband, Richard; two brothers, David Viera and his companion, Pat, and Allen Viera and his wife, Cheryl; a sister-in-law, Barbara Ferreira and her husband, John; her best friend of forty-five years, Beverly Almeida, and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Anthony Viera, Jr.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the caring staff of Sturdy Memorial Hospital, the Seekonk EMT’s and the Community VNA of Attleboro. Their kindness and compassionate care were greatly appreciated.

Former Olympian & Swimming Hall of Famer, Clara A. Lamore Walker, Dies at 94

April 6, 2021

Clara A. Lamore Walker, formerly of Cranston, died on Friday, April 2nd.  She was the daughter of the late Raymond P. and Irene A. (Martellucci) Lamore.

Clara was the sister of the late Raymond F. Lamore, Sr. and the wife of the late Captain Donald P. Walker, USN. Clara is survived by her nephews, Raymond (Lisa) Lamore of Warwick, RI, Paul (Lynn) Lamore of Mountain Top, PA, and her niece Stephanie (Michael) Kent of Ellington, CT.

Born and raised in Providence, Clara was an honors student at Central High School. As a youngster, she joined the Olneyville Boys Club Swim Team.  Under the guidance of Coach Joe Watmough, she became a swimming powerhouse. During the 1940’s she was a Rhode Island Athlete of the Year and a two-time New England Athlete of the Year. Clara was also an A.A.U. National Champion and a five-time All American. Her swimming career culminated in being selected as a member of the 1948 Olympic Team.

After participating in the Olympics, Clara returned to Providence where she worked for the New England Telephone Company. Clara then became a cloistered nun in the Religious Order of the Cenacle. She left the convent, as she jokingly explained, “Due to a lack of decorum.” For example, during family visits, her brother Raymond gave her candy bars, which she hid in her habit. As a nun in a cloistered order, this was strictly forbidden.

In 1964 Clara was one of the first two women to graduate from Providence College. She earned a B.A. in Philosophy. It was during this time that she met her husband Don. During his naval career, Don and Clara lived in Long Beach, CA, Washington, DC, Dayton, OH, Japan and Naples, Italy. While Don served in the Vietnam War, Clara traveled throughout the world, by herself, for 18 months.

While living in Naples in 1970, Don passed away unexpectedly. Clara returned to Rhode Island and settled in Cranston. She became an English teacher at Cranston West High School and then a guidance counselor at Western Hills Middle School.

During her teaching career, Clara returned to Providence College where she earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling and School Administration.

After a 32 year hiatus from swimming, Clara returned to the pool in order to soothe a sore back. She went on to set 484 Masters National Records and 184 Masters World Records. For these accomplishments, Clara was the first Master's Swimmer to be inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1995.

Clara was also inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame, the Italo-American Hall of Fame, and the Rhode Island Aquatics Hall of Fame.

Following her retirement, Clara became a residence hall director at Providence College. Clara enjoyed serving as a volunteer at the Rhode Island Red Cross and Catholics for Life. She was a Eucharistic Minister at Rhode Island Hospital, taught religious education, and was a lector at the Immaculate Conception Church in Cranston. Clara was a member of the Third Order of Saint Dominic.

Clara loved God, her church, family, friends, and former students.

Prince Philip Dies at 99

April 10, 2021

Britain — and the world — is mourning the loss of Prince Philip, His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, who passed away this week at 99.

On Saturday, The Royal Family Twitter account posted the following from Her Majesty The Queen.

“He has, quite simply, been my strength and stay all these years, and I, and his whole family, and this and many other countries, owe him a debt greater than he would ever claim, or we shall ever know,” she said. 

The British military will mark the death of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh with “Gun Salutes across the Nation and Sea” on Saturday. 

Bill McGrath, Member of RI Country Music Hall of Fame and Top Promoter, Dies

April 12, 2021

Bill McGrath, RI Country Music Hall of Fame, PHOTO: FB

Bill McGrath, one of the movers and shakers in Rhode Island’s music world, has passed away. He was a member of the RI Country Music Hall of Fame.

He established Bill McGrath's Music Series, was the performance director at Rising, was a former Vice President at Rhode Island Country Horizons, and was a former Vice President at the Country Music Association of Rhode Island.

He was an influence on hundreds of Rhode Island musicians and one of the biggest supporters of emerging artists.

Award-winning RI musician Nate Cozzolino took to social media to pay tribute to McGrath, writing, “Heartbroken to hear of the passing of my good friend Bill McGrath. Honestly don’t know what to say...That he was an ardent advocate of the RI music scene doesn’t even begin to cover it. This is the caliber of man who gave me, Wesley Forsyth and Ron Tibbetts our 'first-ever' gig as The Ghost Notes, some relative nobodies that had a sound that he believed deserved a chance to be heard. And his bountiful generosity and unwavering support for local music extended far, far beyond my immediate circle, encompassing too many other friends and colleagues in this community to begin to count...."

Dozens of other musicians posted tributes to McGrath to social media.

During the pandemic, McGrath launched a series of online music concerts from his backyard to support and promote artists from his backyard.

Vartan Gregorian - Former Brown President, Global Force in Arts and Philanthropy - Dies

April 17, 2021

Vartan Gregorian -- the former President of Brown University and global intellectual force who led the resurrection of the New York Public Library and headed one of the most important foundations in America -- has died.

His personality and influence dazzled Providence. He was friends with Vincent “Buddy” Cianci and top American executives. Gregorian was an intellectual tour de force.

"The ebullient Armenian immigrant who climbed to pinnacles of academic and philanthropic achievement but took a detour in the 1980s to restore a fading New York Public Library to its place at the heart of American intellectual life, died on Thursday in Manhattan. He was 87. The death, at a hospital, was confirmed by his son Dareh Gregorian. No cause was given,” writes the New York Times.

"Gregorian was a fighter: proud, shrewd, charming, a brilliant historian and educator who rose from humble origins to speak seven languages, win sheaves of honors and be offered the presidencies of Columbia University and the Universities of Michigan and Miami. He accepted the presidency of Brown University (1989-1997), transforming it into one of the Ivy League’s hottest schools, and since then had been president of the Carnegie Corporation of New York, a major benefactor of education,” the Times added.

In Providence, the Vartan Gregorian Elementary School was named in his honor and as a thank you for his contributions to Providence.

At the time of Cianci’s death in 2016, GoLocal spoke with Gregorian:

“He and I developed a strong relationship and it was based on two components - he would not surprise me and I would not ignore him,” Gregorian told GoLocal in an interview.

During the course of Gregorian and Cianci’s overlapping tenure in Providence, the city was transformed.  The successes included the completion of the redevelopment of the rivers, creation of Waterplace Park, construction of the Convention Center, and Providence Place Mall.

Today, Gregorian is President of the Carnegie Foundation of New York. It is one of America's leading foundations and has provided grants of nearly $1.2 billion over the past decade.

Gregorian said that his first interaction with Cianci was on his radio show prior to Cianci returning as Mayor of Providence in 1991. “Staff told me not to go on the radio show. Cianci’s first question was, 'What has Brown done for Providence?” recalled Gregorian.  

The then-new Brown President explained to Cianci that Brown did a lot for the city. “First, I answered that because the city doesn’t put up proper signs, Brown students and their parents pay nearly $640,000 in parking tickets. And the Brown cars are the most stolen and we provide a great supply to Providence’s chop-shops, making Providence number one in stolen cars in America," said Gregorian. "The response cemented our friendship." 

“Cianci was a great dinner companion. He knew everything about everyone in Rhode Island,” said Gregorian.

During the course of the time in which Cianci reigned over Providence and Gregorian led Brown, Providence’s reputation transformed. “He made Providence’s culinary reputation and the city was able to compete with much bigger cities like Boston as a restaurant city,” said Gregorian.

"It was Cianci that brought the artists downtown and made it much safer. He brought Johnson and Wales downtown," said Gregorian rattling off Cianci's accomplishments.

“In many ways, Cianci was a tragic figure. The city was not big enough for him and how smart he was. He was both so good and so bad. There was one time he sent a Providence Police officer to drive to New York City to deliver to me his marinara sauce. Believe me, it was unsolicited and excessive,” said Gregorian.

Gregorian, who is globally recognized as a leader in philanthropy and higher education, has spent a career with world leaders and the greatest minds in education and business. Gregorian said to GoLocal that Cianci is clearly one of the 100 most interesting people" he had ever met.

“When he went to jail I wanted to send him flowers, but my wife (Claire) told me that don’t allow flowers in jail," said Gregorian.

Cianci named the Fox Point Elementary School in Gregorian’s honor - the school is now named the Vartan Gregorian Elementary School and is located on Wickenden Street.

"Cianci, he lived for Providence," said Gregorian.

Former Aide to Senators John and Lincoln Chafee, Barbara (Scotti) Riehle, Dies at 65

April 23, 2021

Barbara (Scotti) Riehle, beloved mother of Anna and Peter, wife of Thom, and daughter of the late Rita W. (Dwyer) Scotti and the late Dr. Ciro O. Scotti, died on April 18 at George Washington University Hospital in Washington. She was 65.

Barbara was born in Providence and educated at Elmhurst Academy and Lincoln School. She moved to Washington in 1974 to attend American University, where she earned a degree in international relations and Soviet studies.

In her teens, Barbara began working for U.S. Senator John Chafee as a campaign volunteer and after college joined his Senate staff and became a longtime aide. She later worked for U.S. Senator Lincoln Chafee.

A lifelong Republican, BSR – as she was known to many – relished the rough and tumble of politics and was steeped in the decorum of the Senate. That is not to suggest she was shy about trading political punches, especially if her sparring partner was Thomas Riehle, a staunch Democrat but highly regarded nonpartisan pollster. Barbara met Thom at a party in 1985 and as one of her closest friends recalls, the sparks lit up that Halloween night. They immediately became inseparable, were married in 1986, and raised two children in Washington, Anna, and Peter. Both Thom and Peter predeceased Barbara.

Barbara was a passionate participant in the life of her Capitol Hill neighborhood. She was one of the founders of the Eastern Market Metro Community Association and for a number of years, served as its president.

Barbara’s tenacity as a community activist and public servant was matched only by her physical courage. Throughout her life, she had to battle serious illnesses repeatedly, and despite all odds, she prevailed. And she did so without a whimper.

Barbara loved the beach, and she and her family spent summers in Narragansett, RI, where her idea of bliss was a humor-filled cocktail hour (perhaps spiced with a bit of gossip) and a steamed lobster. Like her mother and Aunt Alice B. Dwyer, Barbara had an innate elegance, a hearty laugh, and an unmatched sense of fun.

For her friends, Barbara was a wonder of liveliness and kindness. For her brothers and sisters, she could be funny, combative, self-effacing, and loving all in the space of five minutes, but never dull. For her nieces and nephews, she was a sympathetic and endlessly caring aunt, who could always be relied upon.

For Thom, Anna, and Peter, she was a font of loyalty and boundless, selfless love. For those lucky enough to have these close relationships, Barbara’s deep lovingness changed their lives for the better.

For all she touched, though, Barbara was one thing: extraordinary.

Barbara is survived by her loving daughter, Anna, whose graduation from Georgia Tech with an MS and MBA she was able to witness in her last hours; three sisters, Paula Shevlin of Jamestown, RI; Elena Scotti of Southwest Harbor, Maine; Alicia Scotti Mandel of New York City: four brothers, Ciro, Frank, Peter, and Joseph Scotti, all of RI; 23 nieces and nephews. Barbara was predeceased by her brother N. David Scotti and her sisters Maria Scotti Chapin and Rita Scotti.

WWII Navy Vet, Fmr Owner Prisco‘s Metal Works, Arthur C. Prisco, Dies at 105

April 26, 2021

Arthur C. Prisco, 105, of Warwick and Buttonwoods Campgrounds went to the Lord on April 24, 2021.

Born in East Providence on October 9, 1915, the son of the late Luigi & Marie (Schifino) Prisco, Arthur was the husband of the late Della A Prisco for 60 years.

Arthur, a World War II Navy veteran, served honorably in the Pacific Theater and witnessed the signing of the Armistice. Arthur successfully owned and operated Prisco‘s Metal Works.

As a devoted Catholic and communicant of Saint Adalbert Catholic Church, he established his foundation to be the dedicated patriarch of his family. Arthur, an avid golfer, was the last of the original 1962 founding members of the Triggs Men’s Inner Club and a lifetime member of the Tri-City Elks Lodge #14.

He enjoyed ballroom dancing with Della and vacationing with his family at Buttonwoods.

Mr. Prisco leaves his loving daughter Joan with whom he resided; three devoted sons Joseph and wife Sallie; Charles and wife Carole; Leonard and wife Barbara. He was the grandfather of Jennifer, Christina, Jeffrey, Michael, Amanda, Matthew, Anthony, Nathan, and Nicholas Prisco and great-grandfather of Gillian, Caleb, Parker, Wyatt, Emerson, Avery, Sutton, Nora, and Lily Prisco. Many nieces and nephews also survive Arthur. His brothers John, Leonard, Albert, Alfred, and Joseph predeceased him.

George F. Mueden Jr. Dies at 104 - An Amazing Life Including Traveling to Venice on His Own at 100

May 1, 2021

George F. Mueden died peacefully on April 13, 2021 at Evergreen House Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in East Providence, RI. He was eight days shy of 104 years old. He never married, had no children and is survived by a handful of cousins of the families Dennison, Mueden and Moritz.

George was born on April 21, 1917 to Margaret Dennison Mueden and George F. Mueden, who lived on New York’s Upper East Side. He developed an early interest in engineering through his father, a transit engineer, who worked on the construction of New York City’s underground subway system. 

As a young man, George was invited to travel to Europe on the Queen Mary with his Aunt Mathilde Mueden Leisenring, a respected portrait artist and active member of the Arts Club in Washington, DC. Her "Portrait of a Young Boy" (George as a toddler) painted in 1920, hangs at the club.  That early travel adventure with his aunt opened the door to a lifelong interest in the visual arts, music and travel. He gifted his extensive collection of her paintings to the The Arts Club in 2010 which formed a featured exhibition that year.  A permanent room of her paintings is maintained there. 

Following in his father’s footsteps, George graduated with a degree in Engineering from Cornell. He then joined the Army Corps of Engineers where he was assigned to work on the Panama Canal. In 1943, while working on the canal, he lost a leg in a collision between two nine-and-a-half-ton tractors.

During World War II he joined the Civil Defense Ground Observer Corps, where he volunteered to take the night shift, watching over darkened New York City using binoculars to spot incoming enemy fighter planes. It was under the night sky on the rooftops of New York skyscrapers that he met fellow volunteer, Louise Marshall. Although they never married, they were lifelong partners who regularly traveled around Europe. Louise was proficient in Italian, so many of their trips soon gravitated to Italy, where George fell in love with Venice. Until his passing, he stayed in weekly telephone contact with his friend Erla Zwingle, a writer for National Geographic, whom he had met in Venice, where she had settled following an assignment there.

After the war, George spent a number of years at New York’s Cornell Club, where he assisted Cornell alumni with job placements.

In his early 60s, when TRS-80 computers first became available, George, learned to code and program, and became an active member of the Manhattan Computer Club. By the 1980s, he was chairing the club’s computerized investment group, where he met Tobey Sanford, a photojournalist and fellow investing enthusiast, with whom he maintained a close friendship until his death.

As George’s eyesight deteriorated due to glaucoma and cataracts in the 2000s, he began advocating for the accessibility of documents and the Web to those with low vision. Through these efforts, he developed an ongoing friendship with Aries Arditi, a vision scientist, then at Lighthouse International (now Lighthouse Guild). George was active online until his last years, even on Twitter, and maintained remarkable mental acumen, insight and memory until his last days.

Throughout his later years, he turned his attention to philanthropy. He was a gifted investor and turned a guidance counselor's salary into a small fortune day trading on his computer.  He gave generously to many non-profits, including the Food Bank of NYC and the Inner-City Scholarship Fund and would shower his family members, near and far, with large checks without warning.

At 97, he was lured by the friendship of his cousin, Frances Dennison, and the support of her son, Dr. Allen Dennison, to leave his NYC apartment and move to a retirement community where she was living in Providence, Rhode Island.

As George’s 100th birthday approached, he decided to celebrate with a trip to his much-loved Venice. Despite his friends’ concerns about a one-legged man with limited vision and hearing, he managed to plan and make this trip alone, without plunging into the Grand Canal.

Until his death, he continued his advocacy for low vision, maintained his interest in computerized investing and enjoyed following events in Venice.  Mr. Mueden harbored a longstanding affection for the Veteran's Administration for his fine care and rehabilitation, for the Government of the United States for support of his schooling at Cornell University by the GI Bill, and for the City and State of New York.  To his death, he idealistically viewed the above governmental bodies as instruments of compassion for the injured and poor.  His will, to the miffed admiration of his family, specified no bequest to them and approximately 36 % to the federal government, 18 % each to New York City and New York State, unrestricted, to reduce debt.  He disapproved of public debt and, at the end, put his money where his mouth was-- to the tune of between one to two million dollars. 

His cremated remains are to be interred in the Mueden family plot at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Washington, DC at a private gathering of family and friends at future date and his name added to a marker under that of his brother, Edward, who was killed in Belgium in the Battle of the Bulge, 1944. More information on his life and opportunity to comment can be found at livejournal.com (search: "mueden")

Tammy Caroline (Rhodes) Ward, Former Hasbro Administrator, RN, Dies at 57

May 04, 2021

Tammy Caroline (Rhodes) Ward, 57, of Cranston, passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2021, at Miriam Hospital. Born in Providence, she was a daughter of the late Lloyd G. Rhodes, Sr. and Frances E. (Downey) Rhodes. She was the loving companion of Allen Desjarlais.

Tammy was a Graduate of CCRI and went on to work as a Registered Nurse at Rhode Island Hospital as well as an Administrator at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. She was a devout Catholic who was dedicated to her Faith and her family.

A former active volunteer in the City of Pawtucket, she served as President of the Youth Baseball Program and as a member of the Pawtucket Parks & Recreation Committee. In her free time, she enjoyed her visits to the beach and attending concerts.

In addition to her companion Allen, she is survived by her beloved children, Matthew F. Ward (Jennifer) of Cranston, Michael K. Ward (Alexis) of New York, and Nicholas J. Kempf (Jamielee) of Pawtucket, her brother, Lloyd G. Rhodes, Jr. of Pawtucket, her sister, Kimberly Estrada of Cranston, six grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Fundraising Pioneer Simone Joyaux Dies — Major Force in RI’s Nonprofit Community

May 8, 2021

Simone was in demand internationally as an expert speaker on nonprofit fund development and boards. She authored three books that became industry standards: Keep Your Donors (co-written with husband and donor communications specialist, Tom Ahern); Strategic Fund Development (now in its 3rd edition); and Firing Lousy Board Members (and Helping the Others Succeed).

She is survived by her siblings, Nicole Kramer; Andrée, Paul, Philippe, and Alain Joyaux. She was the first child of Jane Peckham Joyaux and Georges Joyaux.

Simone never thought she'd done enough to help. Here's what happened between the beginning and the end, in her own words:

Who I Am

Simone P. Joyaux – Pronounced: See-mun ZhaWHY-oh

Don’t worry about mispronouncing it. I’m not offended.

The “P” stands for Patricia. I’m not sure where that name came from. I asked my mom once and she responded with something like, “I guess your dad and I liked it.” My first name was my French grandmother’s name. My last name, Joyaux, is my family name. My father was French and moved to this country as an adult after World War II. We returned to France regularly to visit. Because of my upbringing, I consider myself more internationally inclined than American inclined.

My credential, ACFRE, means Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive. I received my initial certification, CFRE, in 1984. I was one of the first to achieve the credential of Advanced Certified Fund Raising Executive (ACFRE) in 1994. I’m one of a small group worldwide holding advanced certification in the fundraising profession, accomplished through a rigorous peer-review process that demonstrates an advanced level of fundraising knowledge and professional competency.

My credential Adv Dip refers to the International Advanced Diploma in Fundraising (IADF). Nowhere before had there been an international master's level qualification in fundraising. In 2013, I volunteered to participate in this new education program, developed through an alliance between AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals), the IoF (Institute of Fundraising, U.K.), and the European Fundraising Association. This new common curriculum is still taught in the U.K. Unfortunately, AFP Global discontinued this program after just 3 years.

In 2019, I received the honor of FAFP, AFP Distinguished Fellow.

And in 2020, I participated in the first comprehensive education program in philanthropic psychology, at the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy (UK). With hard work, I received my certificate in Phil Psych. Check out this unique program . . . teaching us fundraisers how to understand our donors through psychology . . . and how to apply this new learning for our organizations.

Colleagues around the world describe me as one of the nonprofit sector’s most thoughtful, inspirational, and provocative leaders. I’m proud of that description. I see myself as a change agent, an agitator. Whether it’s asking essential cage-rattling questions . . . or proposing novel approaches . . . or advocating for change . . . that’s me.

In case that scares you, don’t worry. I take good care of my clients. I’m your trusted advisor, even in areas that have nothing to do with what you hired me for. And I do the same with students and audience members. I get calls and emails from people all over the world asking for my advice, explaining a problem, and asking for help. And sometimes, people just contact me because they feel secure telling me things and sharing their anxieties.

For me, philanthropy is both an avocation and vocation. I volunteer an average of 10 hours per week while working full time. My life partner and I contribute at least 10% of our income to charity annually and have bequeathed our entire estate to charity.

I received my M.A. in 20th century French and American Comparative Literature from Michigan State University.

I began my career in the nonprofit sector in 1975, serving as the executive director of an arts center and arts council in Lansing, Michigan. I served as chief development officer for Trinity Repertory Company (RI) from 1981-1988. I became a full-time consultant in January 1988. I speak internationally.

As a volunteer, I’ve founded two organizations, the first iteration of a statewide arts advocacy organization in Rhode Island. And in 2000, I founded the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, a social justice organization.

I regularly serve on boards, including:

• Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy, United Kingdom: Board member, 2018-2020
• Hartsook Centre for Sustainable Philanthropy, Plymouth University, United Kingdom: Advisory Board, Chair 2014-2018
• Planned Parenthood of Southern New England: Board member, 2010; Chair 2014-2017
• Planned Parent Votes! RI: Board member 2010-2018
• Women’s Fund of Rhode Island, Founder and Chair 2000-2008; Board member, 2008-2010
• CFRE International: Board member, 1997-2003; Chair, 1999-2001
• Michigan State University College of Arts & Letters Alumni Association: Board member, 1998-2001
• Rhode Island Coalition of Library Advocates: Officer, 1991-1993; Board member, 1994-1995
• Rhode Island Governor’s Conference on Library and Information Services: Panning Committee member and delegate, 1991
• Rhode Island Arts Advocates: Founding President, 1984-1988; Board member, 1988-1990
• Family Foundation of North America (Alliance for Children and Families): Board member, 1993-1998
• Nonprofit Resources of Southern New England: Board member, 1998-2000
• State Arts Advocacy League of America: Chair, 1990-1991; Board member, 1986-1995
• Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP): Officer, 1991-1993, 1995-1996; Board member, 1984-1990
• Positions in the AFP Rhode Island Chapter: Board member, 1983-1988; President, 1984-1987

Other volunteer positions: Officer and Board member, Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI; Board member and Chair of MAPS Committee of the United Way of Southeastern New England; faculty for BoardWALK training program of the United Way of America; and President, Looking Glass Theatre. Board member, California Green Academy.

Sports Star, Entrepreneur, Terrence Steven Toppa, of Portsmouth, Passes at 82

 May 12, 2021

Terrence Steven Toppa, 82, of Portsmouth, loving husband, father of four children, and three step-children, passed away on Monday, May 10, 2021.

Terry was born on March 10, 1939, in Newport, RI to Steven and Katherine (Shea) Toppa. 

A lifelong Newporter, Terry was a loving husband and father, an accomplished athlete, and a successful entrepreneur. He raised three children, E’loise Tamer, Rebecca Toppa, and Michael Toppa (Maria) with his former wife Susan Killebrew. He married Patricia (McCarthy) Toppa on May 25, 1980, and together they raised their daughter Nicole Nicodemus (Keith). Terry also helped raise three step-children, Stephanie Pires, Melissa Henry (Rob), and Lewis Abramson (Anita).

In high school, he was captain of the basketball, baseball, and football teams at De La Salle academy. He played on the basketball teams for the University of Rhode Island and then Providence College, where he graduated in 1963. He was ambidextrous and was well known for making certain basketball shots with different hands. Later in life, he became an avid tennis player and made many friends on the courts at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. He also won their meatball contest two years in a row with his famous meatballs.

In the 1960s, Terry taught math at Thompson Junior High for three years and was an assistant football and basketball coach at Roger’s High School.

He opened and operated several successful businesses in the Newport area. He opened Toppa’s Food Service (originally named The Toppa Company) in 1966 with his brother Paul. The Toppa’s delivery trucks are a common sight today in Newport. In 1990 he opened Toppa’s Maytag Laundry, and in 1985 he obtained his broker’s license and started Toppa Realty. He continued to work as a real estate broker for Re/Max of Newport for the rest of his career.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Paul Toppa. He is survived by his wife Pat, his children and step-children, his sister Pat Olechnowicz, eleven grandchildren, a great-grandchild, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Former Warwick Mayor Joseph Solomon, Sr. Passes Away

May 20, 2021

Former Warwick Mayor Joseph Solomon Sr. has passed away.

Former Mayor of Warwick Joseph J. Solomon Sr. has died. 

Statement From Family

The Solomon family released the following statement on Thursday. 

"It is with tremendous sadness that the family of Joseph J. Solomon, Sr. announce his passing in the early morning hours of May 20, 2021. Joseph died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.

Joe dedicated the past two decades of his life to the citizens of the City of Warwick. He worked tirelessly as a Municipal Judge, City Councilperson, City Council President, and ultimately as Mayor. 

Joe leaves behind his wife Cynthia, his son State Representative Joseph J. Solomon, Jr., his mother Rose Solomon of Providence, and five sisters in Rhode Island.

He also leaves many cousins and friends who loved him dearly.

Funeral and Memorial services are incomplete at this time."

Mayor Picozzi Issues Statement

“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Joseph Solomon. Although our political views differed, I have a great respect for anyone who steps up to the plate, puts their name on the ballot and then serves," said Warwick Mayor Frank Picozzi. 

"Joe was a nine term councilman and the 15th Mayor of Warwick and this city will honor him," he added. "I’ve ordered city flags to be lowered for a period of two weeks. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Solomon family."

Business Icon Thomas P. Dimeo Dies - Former Head of Dimeo Construction & Navy Vet

May 22, 2021

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Thomas P. Dimeo on the evening of May 18th at the side of his wife and constant companion, Lorraine Sanderson Dimeo, with whom he proudly and gratefully built a wonderful life.

The youngest child of Joseph Dimeo and Levia Storti Dimeo, Tom was born on October 21, 1930, in Providence, RI, and spent his early years in Edgewood, graduating from Cranston High School in 1948. For those who knew him, did business with him, and worked side by side with him, Tom was a highly respected leader, role model, supporter, and big-hearted friend to all the lives he touched.

Tom’s inherent values of hard work, humility, and kindness were apparent in every facet of his life, both on a personal level, where his sense of humor and gregarious laugh proved infectious to the countless friends, family members, neighbors, and strangers he came across, and in his professional career at the helm of Dimeo Construction Company, the family business Tom’s father, Joseph, founded in 1930.

As a teenager, Tom spent his summers delivering water to construction crews and later cut his teeth in the company’s estimating and shop-drawing department while attending Brown University. Immediately following his graduation from Brown in 1952, with little more than a year remaining before the Korean War would come to an end, Tom served for two years in the United States Navy as a lieutenant. Among his posts, Tom held his commission aboard the Haskell-class attack transport, the USS Latimer, in the Atlantic Theater. He frequently recalled how the formative experience helped to shape his worldview, including his ever-present optimistic perspective of the future and mindset that you can’t change the past so keep looking forward in life.

Following his Navy service, Tom began his career at Dimeo in earnest in 1954 and began leading the company with his brother Joe after their father died in 1961. Under their leadership, Dimeo grew into one of the largest firms in New England, which focused on large commercial construction projects. During Tom’s tenure, Dimeo was instrumental in hundreds of projects ranging from the Boston City Hospital, Independence Wharf in Boston, to Women & Infants Hospital, Providence Civic Center, and many projects at Yale, Harvard, and Brown University, to name a few.

Tom also founded Dimeo Properties, a real estate services firm now run by his son, Paul, that has helped shape skylines throughout New England, and led the evolution of Chapman Equipment Company, a Dimeo subsidiary, into one of the region’s leading providers of aerial lifts.

Through all of his professional success, Tom never lost sight of the importance of giving back. He was enormously generous with his time, resources, and ideas, serving as a director or trustee of Women & Infants’ Hospital, Greater Providence YMCA, Veterans Memorial Auditorium Foundation, National Conference of Christians and Jews, the United Way of Southeastern New England, and Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council. He was also active at Rhode Island Hospital, Providence College, Johnson & Wales University, and the Providence Public Library. In addition, The Rhode Island Zoological Society, Rhode Island Philharmonic, Save the Bay, Trinity Repertory Theater, United Arts Fund, Heart Fund, Rhode Island Housing Partnership, and the Episcopal Charities Fund.

Brown University played a prominent role in Tom’s life during his years on campus where he majored in Economics, served in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program, and was a member of Delta Upsilon. Since his graduation, Tom served on the President’s Leadership Council, as a Brown Alumni Marshal, a member of Pacesetters, the Brown Sports Foundation, Brown Navy Club, and as a Brown Alumni services volunteer.

Of everything Tom was able to build over the course of his life, from building high-profile projects to creating businesses, nothing made him more proud than his family. He was ever inspired by the character and accomplishments of his sons, Paul and Brad; daughters, Lee and Nina; daughters-in-law, Teresa and Kim; and son-in-law, Steven Winoker. Tom could often be found enjoying time with family and friends, from the pool in East Greenwich and beaches in Greenhill and Narragansett to the ski slopes in New Hampshire & Vermont, sailing Narragansett Bay and the golf courses in New England and Florida. Clubs were also a big part of Tom’s life, with many years as a member and leader at the Hope Club, the University Club, the Dunes Club, Point Judith Country Club, and Royal Poinciana amongst others.

In addition to his wife “Sandy” of more than six decades, his children and their spouses, Tom is survived by his sister, Eleanor Dimeo Bolton, and by his grandchildren, Kevin Dimeo (predeceased), Molly Dimeo, Blakely Dimeo, James Coffey, Damon Coffey, Elliot Winoker and Charlotte Winoker, along with multiple generations of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

F. Lee Bailey, Lawyer for Boston Strangler, Patty Hearst and O.J. Simpson, Dies at 87

June 03, 2021

F. Lee Bailey the criminal lawyer who became one of America’s first TV-famous celebrity lawyers has died at 87.

He represented some of the highest-profile defendants in American history -- Patricia Hearst, O.J. Simpson, the Boston Strangler, the army commander at the My Lai Massacre in Vietnam and other notorious cases.

Bailey died on Thursday in Atlanta.

The New York Times reports:

His son Bendrix confirmed the death, in hospice care, but did not specify the cause. He said his father had been in poor health in recent years and living in Georgia to be near another son, Scott.

Mr. Bailey flew warplanes, sailed yachts, dropped out of Harvard, wrote books, touted himself on television, was profiled in countless newspapers, ran a detective agency, married four times, carried a gun, took on seemingly hopeless cases and courted trouble, once going to jail for six weeks and finally being disbarred.

But to a generation of Americans who grew up with courtroom dramas on television, he was the stuff of celebrity legends: an audacious, larger-than-life defender in the traditions of Clarence Darrow and Edward Bennett Williams, producing lawyerly entertainment long before Court TV or reality television shows.

His consulting firm's website writes, "Mr. Bailey is well-known to the public for his activities as a private investigator, military and civilian pilot, boat and yacht manufacturer and captain, trial counsel in many well-publicized cases, writer of 20 books, and prominent lecturer and keynote speaker. He was born in Waltham, Massachusetts, in 1933."

"He did not always win, however. He failed to keep Patty Hearst, the kidnapped publishing heiress, out of prison for her role in a bank robbery. He lost his insanity defense of the confessed Boston Strangler, Albert DeSalvo, and could not save himself from contempt of court citations, humiliating handcuffs and disbarment in 2001 for misappropriating millions," added the Times.

F. Lee Bailey PHOTO: Consulting firm

Business Leader Marilyn Horovitz Winoker Passes Away at 88

June 4, 2021

Marilyn Horovitz Winoker, 88, passed away on Friday, June 4, 2021, at home.

Wife of James Robert Winoker for nearly 66 years. Daughter of the late Sigmund and Dora (Seidel) Horovitz.  Sister of the late Murray Howard, and his wonderful wife and children.  Mother of three children, Susan L. Winoker, David M. Winoker (Kristin), and Steven E. Winoker (Nina).  Six grandchildren, Joshua Resnik (Desire), Alissa Resnik Rubin, Zachary Winoker, Alexander Winoker, Elliot Winoker, and Charlotte Winoker, and two great-grandchildren, Aiden Resnik and Ezra Rubin, many loving cousins.

Graduate of Hope High School and Boston University- School of Public Relations and Communications.  Recipient of the Charlotte Brown-Mayer Award in Public Relations and Communications.

She supported her husband in all activities throughout his three-year military career.  Marilyn partnered with her husband in BB Greenberg Co. for over 35 years.  She, together with her husband and son, David, founded Belvoir Properties in which their daughter and sister, Susan later joined.

Founding member of the Grandparents Guild of the Children’s Museum.  Former board member of the following organizations and Honorary Trustee of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, Board of Higher Education of RI, acting chairman of the Industrial Building and Recreational Authority, Children’s Crusade, Economic Council, Vice President of Women’s Division of Jewish Federation of RI, founding member of Children’s Theater in RI, Temple Emanu-El, former Vice President of Preserve Rhode Island. Member of Commodores of Rhode Island, Jewish Community Center, Insight- Rhode Island, and Woman of the Year Award of YWCA. Member of the Dunes Club, Hope Club, and the University Club.

Marilyn has been a Fellow of Brandeis University for over 35 years.  She was a beloved supporter of our community and was adored by all who knew her.  Marilyn had a special gift to make all who either just met her or were close to her, comfortable in all situations.  She was the ultimate hostess, sharing herself with those fortunate enough to be part of her extended family.  Her family will miss her forever, but she will always be in our hearts.

Designer of the “Bill Russell” Celtics Sneakers, Navy Veteran, Anthony A. Mattos, Dies

 June 6, 2021

Anthony "Bucky" A Mattos, 94, of State Street passed away on June 4th in his own home. 

He was the husband of the late Lorraine (Medeiros) Mattos.  

Born in Bristol, he was the son of the late Jose and Rosaria (Figueredo) Mattos.  He is survived by his children, Jane Centazzo and her husband Butch of Bristol, Cynthia Owens and her husband Richard of VA and David Mattos of Bristol, his Grandson Michael Hoffman and great-grandson AJ Hoffman.  He was the brother of the late Albertina Mattos and Americus Mattos.

He attended Bristol Schools. He was a Pattern Maker for Bristol Manufacturing, Converse, and PF Industries, while working for Raytheon he worked for Miner industries before retiring. He was proud to be the designer of the “Bill Russell”, of the Boston Celtics model for a new line of Canvas Shoes, sneakers to be manufactured in Bristol. Read more here.

Anthony was a Third Class Petty Officer in the Navy Armed Guard in WWII. Medals he received were, the American Area Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Campaign Medal, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, and Commendation Medal along with the Good Conduct Medal.

Co-Owner of Lizzie Borden’s Bed and Breakfast Museum, Lee-Ann Wilber, Dies at 50

June 9, 2021

It is with great sadness that the family of Lee-ann Wilber 1970-2021 announces her sudden passing on June 5, 2021, at the age of 50 years old.

Lee-ann Wilber will be lovingly and forever remembered by her mother, Maryann Enos, formerly Stockley, father Leon Wilber, Aunts, Uncles, family members, and dear friends.

Lee-ann was the co-owner of Lizzie Borden’s Bed and Breakfast Museum in Fall River, Massachusetts, along with her best friend, Donald Woods.

Lee-ann enjoyed acting and, in her early years, was a big part of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. She also loved her cat Max, horses, riding her Harley, and traveling.

Krystal Amber Geraldo Passes Away at 24

June 10, 2021

Krystal Amber Geraldo, 24, passed away on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at St. Luke's Hospital after a devastating motorcycle accident on Sunday.

She was born in Providence, RI on August 26, 1996, to Mylene Geraldo and the late Paul Geraldo. In 2010, Mylene met her fiancee, Ronald Rasmussen who quickly became a second father to Krystal after the death of Paul. 

Growing up, Krystal was an intelligent and stubborn child, often seen running amok in Bristol during the Portuguese Feasts and carnivals with her best friends, Jenna and Alex as well as her sisters, Rebecca and Sarah. As she grew up, she was determined to become a self-sufficient woman who could do as she pleased; for this reason, she learned to drive early, thanks to her Vovo's loose grasp on American vs Portuguese driving laws, began working with Sip'n'Dip at a young age and was close to graduating early from the Mount Hope High School in Bristol, before catching a case of senior-itis.

Anyone who knew her would say that she was witty and quick to run her mouth if upset; a small but fierce woman she dedicated her time to working with the elderly in home-care as a CNA; hoping to one day continue on for her RN or LPN. She was a woman who was devoted to her family and her friends, she was passionate about working on her prized car, a Subaru 5th Gen Legacy. When she wasn't working on her car or with CharterCare she was keeping up with her Snapchat streaks. 

Krystal is loved unconditionally by most everyone who met her; she is survived by her loving mother and step-father, Mylene and Ronnie; her step-sisters, Rebecca Falvey and Sarah Rasmussen; her roommate and niece, Jen and Jena Ferreira; her friends, to name a few, Victoria Eugenio, Jenna Snoeck, Alex Duseault; her cat, Sierra; her beloved Subaru 5th Gen; two Golden Labs, Lilly and Gizmo. She is to be treasured by a host of aunts and uncles, cousins, coworkers, clients, friends and other varied misfits across Rhode Island and Massachusetts. 

She is welcomed into heaven by her late father, Paul Geraldo, and grandmother, Libania De Sousa Almeida. 

John Marinatto, Former PC Athletic Director and Big East Commissioner, Has Died

June 12, 2021

GoLocal has learned that John Marinatto, the former commissioner of the Big East Conference, has died.

He served as senior associate commissioner of the Big East from 2002 until he began his tenure as the third commissioner of the conference on July 1, 2009. He resigned from the commissioner’s position on May 7, 2012, after less than three years.

Marinatto was a native of Providence, Rhode Island, and graduated from Providence College in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in business management.

He worked his way up the ladder at Providence as an Associate Director of Alumni/Development and as Director of Sports Information.

Marinatto was later the athletic director at Providence for 14 years. He directed all aspects of the Providence Friars athletic program, including a $10 million annual budget and a staff of over 100 employees.

While at Providence, Marinatto served as the Chairman of the Big East Athletic Directors’ Executive Committee from 1996–2000, the longest tenure of any athletic director in the history of the conference.

He also served the conference as the Chairman of the Athletic Directors’ Finance Committee from 1992–93. In addition, Marinatto served as Chairman of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Women’s Basketball Committee and Television Committee, and was a member of the Men’s Basketball Committee, Academic Affairs Committee and Championships and Competition Committee.

Longtime Teacher at John Hope, Cheryl Lee Lopes, Passes at 65

June 15, 2021

Cheryl Lee Lopes was called home on June 14th, 2021, a Pillar within the Providence community.

She was the daughter of the late great Anthony J. Lopes and Elizabeth Louise Lopes, as she leaves behind her companion Danny Simpson.

Cheryl has four siblings, Robert L. Lopes, Tracy F. Lopes, the late Lucille A. Smith, and John A. Lopes. She leaves behind four children, Michael, Donald, Danny, and Annette, along with her adoptive daughter, Luzacetta Rivera, six grandchildren, Donayiza, Kyron, Dashon, Phenix, Yovany, and Miracle Lopes, with a host of nieces and nephews.

Cheryl dedicated 34 years of her career teaching and nurturing the children of John Hope, she mothered and impacted many lives. She was known to be a drill sergeant to everyone she came across. She has always spoken her mind, never held her tongue, but her heart was pure. Her arms were always wide open to accept your love and also receive love. Cheryl will forever be cherished by the community and she’ll live through all the souls she has touched. She is the rock of the Lopes’ family that’ll never be kicked around or thrown away

Patrick J. Lupo, Founding Member of John Cafferty & the Beaver Brown Band, Dies

June 24, 2021

Patrick J. Lupo, 66, of Narragansett passed away peacefully on June 21, 2021. 

He was the beloved husband of Catalina M. (Diaz) Lupo for 37 years; they had been together for 44 years and shared a wonderful life.

Born in Providence, he was a son of the late William D. and Rose (Moretta) Lupo.

Mr. Lupo received a BA in Political Science from the University of Rhode Island and an MBA from Western Connecticut State University.

An accomplished bass guitar player, playing music since he was 14 years old, Pat was a founding member of the John Cafferty & the Beaver Brown Band, recording the soundtrack for the movie Eddie and the Cruisers.

He also had a successful career, holding several positions at Dell for over two decades as well as with HP.

Aside from spending time with his family, he enjoyed playing his bass guitar and was also a Harley Davidson enthusiast. He loved curling up on the couch and watching movies with his wife and puppies.

He was the father of Dylan Patrick Lupo of Hoboken, NJ, the late Adam Patrick Lupo, and Mia Anna Rose Lupo of Fairfield, CT.  He was the brother of the late William D. Lupo, Jr. He also leaves a niece, Angelica Taskin of Coventry; and a nephew, Billy Lupo of Cranston. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial, Monday, June 28, 2021, at 11 am in St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, 864 Point Judith Road, Narragansett. 

Former Urban League RI Policy Director Patricia “Tish” Ann DiPrete Handy Dies

July 2, 2021

Patricia "Tish" Ann DiPrete Handy, 56, of Cranston, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Monday, June 28, 2021.

She is the beloved wife of Arthur Handy and doting mother of Alexander James Handy. Born in Providence, she is a daughter of Janice (Cambio) DiPrete and the late James DiPrete, Jr.

Besides her husband Arthur and son Alexander, she is survived by her dear siblings, Jacqueline Zannini and her husband Michael, Kenneth J. DiPrete, and Ronald DiPrete and his wife Martha; niece Mia James DiPrete; mother-in-law Dorothea Handy and brother-in-law Ben Handy. She was predeceased by her late sister-in-law Gail (Pagano) DiPrete.

She is remembered as a fierce defender of her family and friends always being first in line to speak up on their behalf. Most of all, she will be remembered as a dedicated and loving mother to Alex.

Similarly, Tish worked for much of her professional career as an advocate for the voiceless and to protect and educate us on our civil rights. She worked for environmental justice, reproductive rights, and an end to racial profiling. As Policy Director at the Urban League of RI, she was proud of her work in ensuring people’s right to vote was protected and in educating voters on their rights. Probably her biggest victory was the passage of the Madeline Walker Act protecting many Rhode Islanders from the threat of losing their homes to tax lien sales. She believed that just because someone does not have anyone, does not mean they should not have anyone to speak up for them.

He Escaped Nazi Germany and Became a RI Judge—Peter K. Rosedale of Warwick Dies at 90

July 16, 2021

Peter K. Rosedale, of Warwick, died on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 (his 90th birthday). He leaves his wife of 52 years, Beverly (Costantino) Rosedale. 

Born as Klaus Rosenthal in 1931 in Essen, Germany, he was the son of Otto and Martha Rosedale.

Peter arrived in the U.S. with his parents on March 13, 1939, at the height of the Great Depression and just before World War II.  Although only 7 years old in 1938, he always had a vivid recollection of Kristallnacht, seeing his synagogue set on fire and early dismissal from his Jewish school because of a rumor of a possible bombing.

Peter’s parents were unable to find employment in New York City and were urged to relocate to Providence or Boston for better employment opportunities. They chose Providence because the bus fare was $0.45 less than going to Boston, and the $30 that the German government allowed them to take to the U.S. was quickly dwindling.

He graduated from Hope High School, where he served as president of the debating society and was one of two recipients receiving the Anthony Medal for writing the best senior class essay.  He graduated from Boston University (College of General Education and the School of Law).  After serving in the U.S. Army, he practiced law in Providence for over 40 years and was an active arbitrator in the public sector for the American Arbitration Association.  Before and after retirement, he was active as a marriage officiant and performed thousands of civil wedding ceremonies.

He was active in Democratic politics, serving as a member of the Providence City Council, State Representative for 10 years, member of the state Democratic Party Executive Committee, 9th Ward chairman, and chairman of the representative and senate district committees.

Peter served as judge of the Providence Municipal Court, chairman of The R.I. Bar Association District Court Bench/Bar Committee, chairman of the Board of the former Cranston General Hospital, chairman of the Warwick Board of Canvassers, Board member of the former Temple Beth Israel and President of the former Roger Williams Lodge of B’nai B’rith.  He was the only Rhode Islander ever elected as national President of the then-junior order of B’nai B’rith, known as the AZA.  He was a member of the Aurora Civic Association.

Besides his wife, Peter is survived by his five children, Steven and Aileen (late) of CT; Michael of MA; Nancy and her fiancé Robson De Oliveria of MA; Paul of North Kingstown; and Tom and his wife Tiffany of MA.  Peter is also survived by his grandchildren, William, Elora, Brooke, Lily, and Avery.  He also leaves his beloved Siamese cats, Princess and Mitzie.

Former Top State House Staffer Russell Charles Dannecker Dies at 69

July 27, 2021

Russell Charles Dannecker, 69, died Sunday, July 25, 2021, at Miriam Hospital in Providence.

He was the husband of Barbara Frances (Byrnes) Dannecker, the late Louise Anne Dannecker, and the late Janet Louise Dannecker.

Born in South Weymouth, Massachusetts he was a son of the late Howard Charles Dannecker, Jr and the late Dorothy Ann (Barker) Dannecker.

Russell is survived by his sons, Max Gillen Dannecker and his wife, Natalie of Kent, WA, Glenn Michael Nasfell of Central Falls, Corey Matthew Nasfell and his wife, Kim of Wytheville, VA, a daughter, Shelby DeFaria, and her husband, Jose of Coventry, his grandchildren: Aubrey Lynn Dannecker, Bryce Gillen Dannecker, Azure Lin Nasfell, Skyla Ann Nasfell, Brockton Stanley Nasfell, Jayden Drew Nasfell, a brother, Ronald H. Dannecker and his wife, Kathleen, of East Amherst, NY, many loving nieces and nephews, and their children. He was the father of the late Samuel Charles Dannecker and the late Charles Jacob Dannecker.

Russ was the former Senate Fiscal Advisor, Rhode Island Legislature before he retired in 2008.

He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served a Mission to the Preston England Temple. He also served as Elders Quorum President, Bishop, and as a Member of the Stake Presidency. He was also a member and First Sargent of Battery B, 1st RILA

Russ will be remembered as a loving Husband, Father & Genealogist. He was a devout Latter-Day Saint, “enduring to the end”, a true Patriot & Defender of the Republic.

Special Olympian, Peter Christopher Tierney, of Pawtucket, Passes Away at 54

August 9, 2021

Peter Christopher Tierney, 54, of Pawtucket, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2021.

He was the son of John and Helena (Hogan) Tierney. Peter is survived by his siblings Sean Tierney, and his wife Pam, Alicia Sheehan, Maureen Bracewell, and her husband Stephen, and Robert Tierney, and his wife Laura. He also leaves several nieces and nephews and five great-nieces. He was the brother of the late James Tierney.

Peter was affiliated with The Arc of Blackstone Valley, RIARC, and worked at the New to You Resale Shop. Peter lived in the Trenton Residence for several years. His housemates and staff were like family.

Peter attended Fallon Memorial Elementary School and participated in many of the school’s musicals. He attended and graduated from Tolman High School. Everything Peter did was done with class and style. He touched many lives with his firm handshake and a brilliant smile. His kind, gentle spirit, and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by all that knew and loved him. Peter was fascinated with anything involving the military and was never without his beloved military hats in hand. Peter cherished the time spent with family and friends. As Peter got older, he developed a love for ice coffee. He was willing to do anything and go anywhere if an iced coffee was involved. Peter always looked forward to his weekly ice coffee dates with his sister.

Peter lived life to the fullest and loved being involved. He was active in the BVC First Theater Group which performed at City Nights Dinner Theater, in Pawtucket. He performed dual lead roles of a young Scrooge and Tiny Tim in the Christmas Carol. His love for being involved continued with joining Kid’s Break Television Show on cable, where he was a cameraman. Peter also worked at various neighborhood restaurants. As a Special Olympian, Peter competed in track and field events, winning many medals over the years. In 1991, Peter was proud to represent RI in the International Special Olympic Games in Minneapolis, MN, earning gold, silver, and bronze medals.

Relative and friends are kindly invited to visiting hours Saturday, August 14, 2021, 8:30-10:30 a.m.in the Keefe Funeral Home, 5 Higginson Avenue Lincoln, RI.

Former W. Warwick State Representative & Star Athlete, William “Bud” Alves, Dies

August 21, 2021

William L. "Bud" Alves, 85, of Cleveland St., West Warwick, passed away peacefully with his loving children by his side on August 19, 2021, at Brentwood Nursing Home in Warwick, RI. 

He was the loving husband of the late Ann M. Alves for 57 years.  Born in Bristol RI, he was raised and lived in West Warwick for 80 of his 85 years.  He was the eldest son of the late William “Bill” and Lena (Amaral) Alves and brother of the late Steve L. and Earl L.  Alves.  Ann and Bud raised 6 loving, loyal and dedicated children, Donna (deceased, 2015) and Richard Paliotta, Sharon and David Raiche, William “Chuck” and Diane Alves, Stephen and Debra Alves, Kathryn (Kathy) and Stephen Vinton, and Sally Jane (deceased, 2007) and William “Billy” Rainville.  He was the very proud grandfather of Michael Paliotta and Alicia Proulx, Matthew Raiche and Amanda Caetano, Jennifer Degraide and David Alves, William and Kaitlyn Alves, Stephen, Kyle, and Kayla Vinton, Jillian Nesbitt, and Bryan Rainville.  He leaves behind the joys of his life, his 17 great-grandchildren Brea, James, Lola, Calley, Jack, Adeline, Nicholas, Harper, Ryan, Zachary, Madden, Amelia, Griffin, Paxton, Reilly, Nolan, and Hayes. He also leaves behind his loving companion, Helen Kosubinsky of Lincoln, RI, and many loving nieces and nephews.

A former State Representative from West Warwick, Bud was a 1954 graduate of West Warwick High School where he was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and baseball.  He earned the 1953 School Boy Athlete of the Year Award and earned All-State honors in each sport he played. He attended Boston College (‘54-’58) and graduated with a degree in Business Management and was a member of the Greater Boston All-Star Team. Bud was inducted to West Warwick High School Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Providence Grid Iron Club Hall of Fame in 2007.  While he loved playing all of his high school and college sports, he loved the game of golf in his later years and watching his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews participate in West Warwick and Cranston West sporting events.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at 10 am in Christ the King Church, 124 Legris Ave., West Warwick.

Top Executive and Lacrosse Star, 4 Time National Champ Sean Michael Fox of Wickford, Dies at 59

August 30, 2021

Sean Michael Fox lost his battle with liposarcoma on August 23, 2021, at his home in Wickford, Rhode Island, surrounded by his family and dearest friends.

Sean Michael Fox, son of Robert Allen and Mary Ann (Moore) Fox, was born in Cortland, NY, on May 21, 1962. Over the course of 59 years, Sean enjoyed great success as an athlete, in business, and in life. He helped to earn four Division III College Lacrosse National Titles playing at Hobart College under Hall of Fame coach Dave Urick and later returned as a member of the Statesmen coaching staff to contribute to a fifth National Championship season. Dave Urick served as Sean’s greatest mentor; he took to heart Coach U’s charge: “All I ask is that you give back to the game that gave you so much.” Sean felt an obligation to spread his love for the game, whether that meant offering wisdom to the sport’s rising superstars or engaging with a young child picking up a stick for the first time.

Sean felt wonderfully blessed to have had the opportunity to build a livelihood with his true passion as the platform. To his core, he believed that lacrosse offered a vehicle toward a myriad of elements of success. Through his uncanny ability to nurture relationships and his devotion to helping others better themselves, Sean was able to turn this passion into his life’s work. He dedicated himself to spreading his love for the game across generations, upholding his commitment to helping provide others with access to the same vehicle that had awarded him so much opportunity throughout his own life. Most recently, he served as Senior Director, Lacrosse for 3Step Sports.

Sean exhibited extraordinary devotion to family and friends. He was a great leader of people, teacher of life, and served as an inspiration for many. He was the glue that connected so many people. Sean made clear the priorities in his life, invariably introducing himself as “Connor and Trevor’s Dad”. His family meant the world to him and included so many teammates, co-workers, and colleagues. The value of Sean’s unwavering allegiance to the people closest to him was made evident as his dearest friends rallied at warp speed to be with him on the final day of his life.

Sean’s love of sports transcended lacrosse. He met Kristin O’Brien, the love of his life, at Wrigley Field in 1993 where he offered her a handful of peanuts (and lovingly held her chewing gum behind his ear). It was the beginning of lifelong love and partnership that became, and still is, Team Fox.

Sean was an incredible and compassionate man and an upstanding gentleman. Through consistency in principle and behavior, he earned universal respect for his humble kindness and mentorship. Without fail, Sean made himself available to help guide others, offering his deep wisdom to coaches, parents, colleagues, and student-athletes. His mission was to generate within others a similar love and respect for the game of lacrosse that had been instilled in him - to which he credited many of his own great life experiences.

Sean was a certain kind of old-school pure with a great filter that allowed him to sort through the noise and focus on the things that truly mattered. His personal credo was 1. Work hard 2. Be honest 3. Protect your family and friends at all costs 4. Most importantly, have fun!

We are all better for having known Sean.

Sean was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Mary Ann; his sister, Mary Ellen; and his Mother-in-law, Joan (Erikson) O’Brien. He is survived by his wife, Kristin O’Brien Fox, and sons Connor and Trevor; brothers Tim (Cheryl) and Jon (Tina); Father-in-law, Robert O’Brien; Sisters-in-law Meg Holmgren (Jay) and Susan Weberg (Warren); and nieces and nephews J.J. and Kristina Holmgren, and Ryan Fox.

3-Time Patriots Super Bowl Winner David Patten Dies at 47

Sept. 3, 2021

Former NFL wide receiver David Patten, who won three Super Bowl titles with the New England Patriots, has died at the age of 47.

Sam Gordon, who managed Patten, confirmed his client's death to ESPN.

"We are all very heartbroken," said Gordon, who added that he had spoken with Patten's wife Friday morning. "He was a man of God. He had his own ministry. He loved New England very much."

His former teammate Richard Seymour tweeted, "Heartbroken …great man of God… lost for words - David Patten…"

Patten played for five teams over a 12-year NFL career but is best known for his four seasons with the Patriots from 2001 to 2004.

Patten lives in Patriots lore as he caught the only offensive touchdown for the Patriots in their first Super Bowl win. In the Super Bowl versus the Rams, Patten hauled in an 8-yard pass from Tom Brady to give New England a 14-3 lead just before halftime.

Many former Patriots and coaches took to social media to praise Patten as a player, friend, and teammate.

George Wein, Co-Founder and Creator of Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival, Dead at 95

September 13, 2021

Impresario, promoter, pianist, art collector, and philanthropist George T. Wein, co-founder and creator of the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival, who for seven decades, was the most influential presenter of music around the globe, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, September 13, 2021. He was 95. 

When Wein received a Grammy Honorary Trustee Award in 2015, the awards show host, rap star/actor LL Cool J, said, “George Wein defined what a music festival could be with the Newport Jazz Festival, Newport Folk Festival and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. This is a great guy. More than anyone, George set the stage for what great festivals today look like; festivals like Coachella, Bonnaroo … he made this possible…” 

Known more as a producer than a performer, Wein made stars of, and revived the careers of generations of musicians who performed at his venues. Miles Davis, who told Wein that “you can’t have a festival without me,” performed his comeback in 1955 with his immortal performance of ‘Round Midnight. The following year, Duke Ellington said he was “born at Newport” when he recorded one of his biggest hits, Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue. Wein created the music festival as we know it, putting jazz and folk and their many variations in the most accessible performance spaces to the widest audiences possible. 

Just before his 90th birthday, Wein began planning for the sustainability of Newport Festivals Foundation, the non-profit that runs the two music events. First he tapped producer Jay Sweet, who had brought new life into the Folk Festival, to work as Executive Producer to oversee the organization with the board of directors. Then he set his sights on bassist Christian McBride, who, unrivaled, became Artistic Director of the Newport Jazz Festival in 2017.

“He not only invented the idea of a modern-day music festival and made the careers of numerous music icons, but his investment in music appreciation is to me what makes him the biggest icon of them all,” said Sweet. “George has an undeniable gift for making things happen.  As a result, he has perhaps done more to preserve jazz than any other individual. He was my mentor and, more importantly, my friend and I will miss him dearly.” 

Upon the announcement of his new role, McBride said, “To be able to work with a legend like George Wein, not only as a musician, but now as an understudy, is a task I will cherish and approach with openness and excitement.”  He told Elmore magazine in 2019, “He’s still the source and guiding light for every person who runs a major festival.”  

Even now, that sentiment continues to be echoed by producers in France, Spain, Italy, Germany, and all across North America. 

In his 2003 biography, Myself Among Others: A Life in Music, with Nate Chinen, Wein wrote, “whether it's one of the many festival producers throughout the world, or the concert promoters, or the individual nightclub owners struggling night to night – their contributions are essential to the history of this music. I’m glad to have been part of this process: in the development of the jazz festival, the acceptance of this music as art, the efforts to bring jazz to a wider audience worldwide ...”

George Theodore Wein was born in Newton, MA, on, October 3, 1925, to Jewish parents. His father, Dr. Barnet Wein, was an ear, nose, and throat specialist. His mother, Ruth, was a homemaker, and he had an older brother, Lawrence. He started taking piano lessons at the age of eight. He was later introduced to Earl Hines’ horn-like piano style and the die was cast for his life in jazz and music. Wein played in various jazz bands around Boston while still in Newton High School. After a year in college, he was drafted into the Army. He maintained that he got his greatest education and life lessons from negotiating with fellow soldiers of many races, ages and faiths.  Following his honorable discharge from the Army, he returned to Boston University on the G.I. Bill and graduated from the School of Liberal Arts in 1950.  

After college, 25-year old Wein opened his own jazz club, Storyville, in Boston, which featured world-renowned stars and emerging artists. He created a record label of the same name, recording some of the best in live music. But, he would undergo the biggest opportunity and challenge of his life in 1954, when he met Newport socialites, Louis and Elaine Lorillard, who asked him to create something to liven up summers in the City-by-the-Sea. A fan of the classical music festival in Tanglewood, Wein began to formulate his plan.

He wrote in his memoir, “What was a festival to me? I had no rule book to go by. I knew it had to be something unique, that no jazz fan had ever been exposed to. I remembered my nights in New York City when I had started off in Greenwich Village at 8 pm, gone to Harlem, and ended up seven hours later at 52nd Street. I could never get enough jazz. I heard Dixieland, big bands, swing, unique singers, and modern jazz. If this is what I loved, then that’s what should appeal to any jazz fan. I’m sure that’s what directed my concept of the Newport Jazz Festival … They wanted to ‘do something with jazz’ in their community. I took that vague but earnest request and hatched the festival. There is no doubt that the driving force and inspiration behind the festival was Elaine … Louis provided the necessary financial support and local influence.” Wein did the rest and made music history many times over. 

From that moment on, the Newport Jazz Festival was the gold standard for presenting jazz to the public. To list all of the jazz artists who played there would be exhausting. Simply put, all of the major and emerging stars have performed there, and 67 years later, they still do. Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Lester Young, Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, Mahalia Jackson, Tony Bennett, Chick Corea as well as Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, Jon Batiste, Robert Glasper, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Snarky Puppy, Diana Krall, Christian McBride and countless others have been a part of the festival’s storied history.

In 1959, the same year Wein married Joyce Alexander, an African-American biochemist, he co-founded the Newport Folk Festival with folk artist Pete Seeger. They later hired producer Bob Jones, and went on to present the best and brightest musicians of folk, blues, and gospel, including Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Peter, Paul & Mary and the Dixie Hummingbirds. Today artists have included Mavis Staples, Brandi Carlile, Jim James, Nathaniel Rateliff, Michael Kiwanuka, Dolly Parton, Rhiannon Giddens, The Decemberists, Jason Isbell, Alabama Shakes and the late John Prine. It was on a Newport Folk stage in 1965 that Dylan famously (infamously to some) went electric. Wein, who sensed the displeasure of the audience, asked Dylan to go back on stage and play some acoustic selections. He did as requested, and the set became known as one of the defining moments in 20th Century music. After turning over the reigns of the Folk Festival to producer Sweet in 2009, Wein attended every event (except 2021), listening to old favorites and new music while marveling at the sold-out crowds and enjoying the many surprise artist collaborations.

The decades from the 60s to the 90s saw Wein’s operation, Festival Productions, expand. In 1970, he founded the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which he later turned over to his protégé Quint Davis.  In 1972, one year after the Newport riots, Wein came to New York City, and produced concerts in the summer months when Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall were traditionally closed. Wein’s Newport Jazz Festival-New York, along with his afternoon concerts and workshops breathed new life into the Big Apple jazz scene, which was diminished at that time.

Three years later, Wein and promoter Dino Santangelo launched the KOOL Jazz Festivals, which featured jazz, R&B and soul artists on the same stages in large arenas across the country, including Oakland, Atlanta, Hampton, VA, Cincinnati, San Diego, Houston and Kansas City. Jazz superstars McCoy Tyner, Freddie Hubbard, Quincy Jones, Donald Byrd and Cannonball Adderley played on the same bill with the Ohio Players, the O’Jays, The Isley Brothers and B.B. King. Those concerts became more than just music events – they were annual celebrations of Black music that were revered as major cultural events.  

In 1984, he negotiated a sponsorship with JVC, which lasted in New York for 25 years. Wein’s company circled the globe with events in Newport, Los Angeles, Chicago, Warsaw, Copenhagen, Berlin, Tokyo and Paris, among others, bringing top-flight American jazz overseas and opening up the world to touring jazz musicians.  His influence also made it possible for many international artists to work in the United States.

Wein pioneered the idea of sponsor association with music events, and during those periods of changing public taste in music and society, he engaged with many sponsors including Essence, for which in 1995 he and the magazine’s co-founder, Ed Lewis, developed the annual music festival that became the largest African-American culture and music event in the United States. Wein also built sponsorships with Mellon Bank, Ben & Jerry’s, Verizon and Playboy, which bred a 42-year working relationship and friendship with producer Darlene Chan. 

In 2007, Wein sold his company to a group of young entrepreneurs, who within two years ran into financial trouble. To keep his legacy alive, Wein, then 81, reacquired the festival names and remained active with them until his death. In 2009, he aptly titled his flagship events George Wein’s Newport Jazz Festival 55 and George Wein’s Newport Folk Festival 50, funding both events with his own money and funds from a few friends. The following year, he established and was named Chairman of the non-profit Newport Festivals Foundation. Shortly after announcing that he was looking for a sponsor for Newport Jazz, the Foundation landed the healthcare company Carefusion and then Natixis Investment Managers as presenting partners.

In addition to its festivals, the Foundation began sending its Jazz Assembly Band into schools to celebrate the rich history of jazz. Since its inception in 2016, the program, spearheaded by Deborah Ross, Education Director and Wein’s Operations Manager for over three decades, has given access to more than 35,000 students. Particularly excited by this initiative, Wein fondly remembered an elementary school assembly, which featured a jazz band that played “Rhapsody in Blue.”  He called it “an experience he would never forget.”  Newport Festivals Foundation also provides instruments to schools, free content for music educators, financial relief to hundreds of musicians impacted by the pandemic and presented over 100 grants for music education programs across the country.

In 2020, the pandemic forced Newport and other festivals around the world to cancel and go virtual. Wein was no fan of virtual concerts and was looking forward to returning to his beloved Newport to ride around Fort Adams on his golf cart, The Wein Machine, sampling a taste of all the music on every stage. That was not to be, but Wein was thrilled to take part in the festival from his Manhattan home where he introduced his friend Mavis Staples over the telephone and singer Andra Day (star of The United States vs. Billie Holiday) via FaceTime.

A life-long student of Black culture, Wein and his wife, who died in 2005, created The George and Joyce Wein Collection of African-American Art, which went on display at Boston University in 2019. The collection contained 60 works from a host of artists including Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Norman Lewis, Beauford Delaney and Jacob Lawrence. The Joyce and George Wein Foundation contributes to a number of organizations, including The Studio Museum in Harlem, which administers the annual $50,000 Joyce Alexander Wein Artist Prize, one of the most significant awards given to individual artists in the United States today.  The award recognizes and honors African-American artists who demonstrate great innovation, promise and creativity. The Foundation also established The Joyce and George Wein Chair of African American Studies at Boston University and the Alexander Family Endowed Scholarship Fund at Simmons College. The Foundation also supports Dr. Glory’s Youth Theater, a multi-ethnic non-profit children’s theater that presents original works by Dr. Glory Van Scott twice a year. 

As a result of his diverse contributions to jazz and world culture, Wein was honored by heads of state, educational institutions and leading publications.  In addition to the Grammy Award, he was named an NEA Jazz Master (Jazz Advocate) in 2005, and in 2012, he received the Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP) Award of Merit for Achievement in Performing Arts for an individual “whose genius, energy and excellence has defined or redefined an art form.”  In addition, honors and awards were bestowed upon him by Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, AARP, The Studio Museum in Harlem, the French Legion d’Honneur and Chile’s Order of Bernardo O’Higgins. Wein was the recipient of honorary degrees from Boston University, the Berklee College of Music, Salve Regina University, Rhode Island College of Music and North Carolina Central University. He was a lifetime Honorary Trustee of Carnegie Hall and on the board of The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation. 

In 2014, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation opened the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, an education and community facility that offers free music classes in the city’s Tremé section. He said it gave him great pleasure “to drive down North Rampart Street to see their names across the top of a building in a city where Joyce was not welcome in the first meetings to discuss the festival in New Orleans.”  

Though he slowed down in later years, Wein was still active not only in Newport, but before the pandemic, he enjoyed going to jazz clubs several nights a week, sharing gourmet dinners with friends, collecting and sampling wines from around the world and playing piano and singing for guests at his Eastside home. As a pianist, he recorded over 10 records, including Wein, Women and Song, George Wein and the Newport All-Stars, and Swing That Music. He made his last public performance in 2019 in Newport at a pre-festival concert and he presented his band, the Newport All-Stars, at the 2010 and 2012 jazz festivals.

“The mark of a great business leader is to be able to take an idea and build it into something memorable, something wonderful for the world to enjoy,” said Bruce Gordon, who was President of Verizon Retail Markets when he first met Wein 20 years ago and now succeeds him as Chairman of Newport Festivals Foundation. “As a young man of just 25, George listened to a dream, created an idea and built a team to help nurture it.  It also takes someone very special like George to know that, while your mind is still sharp, you can handpick the people to carry on your legacy. To be able to live long enough to watch it flourish is an added blessing. But, most importantly, George was not just a business colleague, he was friend and family to me and my wife, Tawana, to the entire board and to the team of people with whom he surrounded himself, many who had worked with him for multiple decades. To say that we loved him and will miss him is an understatement.”

The Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals are Wein’s greatest endeavors, but his true legacy is that he proved that jazz and folk music can be presented to the public with quality and dignity beyond the clichéd confines of nightclubs and coffeehouses and brought into the light of day, where everyone can mingle and swing in harmony. And, he also proved that one can have a good life from doing exactly what you love. As he told National Public Radio in 2014, “Jazz will go where musicians take it, because they'll always want to play. And, as long as they want to play, somebody's going to listen.”

Wein is survived by his nieces Margie Wein of Brooklyn, NY, and Carol Wein of Watertown, MA; sister-in-law Theodora McLaurin of Chestnut Hill, MA; and long-time friend, Dr. Glory Van Scott of New York City. George and Joyce had no biological children, but he loved and nurtured dozens of festival “children and grandchildren” around the world.

All-American Wrestler from RI, Alexandra Kenzie Nelson, of Charlestown, Dies at 17

October 6, 2021

Alexandra Kenzie Nelson, 17, of Charlestown, passed away Monday, October 4, 2021. She was the loving daughter of Kenneth and Stephanie (Toro) Nelson.

She was the beloved granddaughter of Helen Toro and Naomie Nelson. She was predeceased by her grandfathers, Theodore Nelson, Eugene Toro, and “Herman Toro”.

Allie was a shooting star often being called an old soul. She was funny and creative. She was a mentor to many in the wrestling world and elsewhere. She was a state and national champion, and an 8-time all-American wrestler. She was captain of the boy's wrestling team at the Chariho high school. Alexandra was an artist, musician, and photographer. Allie loved skateboarding, surfing, and construction. Allie was a loyal and generous friend who is known for giving the best hugs.

Besides her parents, she is survived by her two sisters, Karli Nelson and Claudia Nelson, and her faithful K-9 friend Maybel and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

RI Korean War Veteran Who Died at 26, MIA for 70 Years, to be Laid to Rest

October 8, 2021

The following is the obituary for Lt. Anthony Mazzulla, a Rhode Island native and Korean War Veteran who was MIA for the last 70 years. His remains were identified in 2020 by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency; Mazzulla was determined to be 26 years old at the time of his passing. 

1st Lt. Anthony R. Mazzulla, US Army, (11/13/1924 – 12/2/1950; age 26) US Army Korean War Veteran will be coming home to his native Rhode Island where he will be laid to rest with full military honors after being “unaccounted for” (MIA/KIA) for the last 70 years.

Mazzulla’s remains were turned over to the United States by North Korea on July 27, 2018, according to the U.S. Army.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency finally identified his remains on May 28, 2020, using circumstantial and anthropological evidence, and scientists from the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System used mitochondrial DNA and Y chromosome analysis, according to the U.S. Army.

Anthony was a member of B Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division in the US Army.

He was awarded many medals and decorations for his military service, such as Purple Heart, WWII Victory Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Bronze Star (3), Presidential Unit Citation, Navy, Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), Honorable Service Lapel Button- WWII, United Nations Service Medal- Korea, Republic of Korea War Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

Born in the Bronx, NY he was a son of the late Louis J. and Jennie (Toto) Mazzulla. He was the brother of the late Daniel E. Mazzulla, Louis G. Mazzulla and John R. Mazzulla.

Anthony is survived by his dear nieces and nephews, Lois Marandola, Anthony Mazzulla, Michael Mazzulla, Lori Cardillo, Donna Mazzulla, David Mazzulla, Kristen Mazzulla, and the late Daniel Mazzulla.

The Unofficial Mayor of Central Falls, Jesus Alberto (Zeus) Belardo, Passes at 34

October 19, 2021

Jesus A. Belardo, 34, passed suddenly at his home in Central Falls on Tuesday, October 12, 2021.

Born on the Island of St. Croix, on March 7, 1987, he was the loved son of Jorge A. Belardo Sr. and Mercedes J. Bobea and the beloved brother of Jorge A. Belardo Jr.

After about 8 years on the Island, his family decided it was time to search for greener pastures and landed in Providence around 1994. As a family their bond grew stronger as they navigated through the culture shock and the weather. Jesus was grateful to know exactly what he wanted and needed from life and made the decision to leave school early to pursue his own opportunities before finally deciding to get his GED and start his career as a barber.

He worked with Kapicua Hair Design on Broad St in Central Falls for the last few years and it was here that he earned his title as the Unofficial Mayor. He spread love and light to his clients and their families. Whether he was talking a child down from the fear of their first haircut or processing a traumatic event with a client by providing them a new look on life and with them, he always made time and put in the effort to support and provide compassion to his community.

Jesus was more than a friendly barber though, he was a proud father and husband. He met Laura Sanchez, a vivacious woman who kept him in line and together they began raising their kids. They had the opportunity to give Victoria and Miguel a family of love who provided many laughs and headaches. Laura and Jesus had finally decided that after 11 months it was time to make it official, on January 16, 2016, surrounded by their loving friends and family they exchanged vows and started their lives together as Mr. and Mrs. Belardo. They shared everything from secrets to Laura's Ceviche recipe which he improved. What they loved to share most was laughter.

His favorite hobby was freestyling and roasting his closest friends. Jesus as a father knew it was his responsibility to raise functional and reliable children. He taught his children the importance of unsolicited kindness. His most recent opportunity to spread this kindness was during a recent family vacation to the Virgin Islands where he gifted his jersey to a man who was down on his luck. When the phrase "give the shirt off his back" was brought up, Jesus took it seriously and as a lesson for his young children. 

Jesus was a talented man who called himself Zeus, he made beats and loved to freestyle whatever he thought fit. He never released music to the public, some say it was to protect the well-being and careers of other artists. He wasn't one who was known for intentionally outshining competition; he let it happen naturally. 

Jesus was young and well loved and lived a life that reflected this. He is survived by many loving people; his adoring wife, Laura Belardo; his children, Victoria, Miguel, and Logan; his mother, Mercedes "Julie" Belardo; his brother, Jorge Belardo Jr.; in-laws; Elizabeth and Luis; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Co-Owner of Sweenor’s Chocolates, Claire Mary Sweenor, Dies at 80

December 2, 2021

Claire Mary Sweenor (Gibbs) passed away peacefully at home on November 30th.

She was born in Cranston, Rl on April 1st, 1941, and resided in Narragansett, RI and Fort Myers, FL. She was preceded in death by her parents John Howard and Claire Ann Gibbs, and her brother James Gibbs.

Claire was a wonderful mother and devoted wife to Bill for 59 years. She spent a year as a teacher before having children, later becoming co-owner of Sweenor’s Chocolates with her husband Bill. After retiring in 2005, she loved to spend her time golfing, boating, and enjoying the home she shared with her husband in Florida where they lived 6 months out of the year.

She is survived by her loving husband William Sweenor, their three children, Jeffrey Sweenor (Sheila), Lisa (James) Dunham, and Brian Sweenor, grandchildren Ryan and Talia Sweenor and Andrew, Brett, and Cole Dunham.

Owner of Mulchworks Landscape Construction, Inc., Michael J. Valelli Dies at 53

December 3, 2021

It is with a heavy heart we share the unexpected passing of Michael Jude Valelli, 53, of Cranston, Rhode Island. Michael died peacefully at Miriam Hospital on November 30, 2021 surrounded by his wife and children. 

Michael was born on June 13, 1968 in Providence, Rhode Island. He served as an altar boy at St. Matthews Church in Cranston. Michael was a lifetime resident of Cranston, graduating from Cranston High School East in 1987 and continuing his education at Community College of Rhode Island in Warwick. 

Michael was the founder and owner of Mulchworks Landscape Construction, Inc. Michael began his landscaping and construction business in 1988 with less than 10 customers and one lawnmower in the back of an old beat-up pick-up truck.  Under his leadership, his company steadily grew to become one of the state’s most successful landscaping and construction businesses.  

“Big V” was the life of the party. He was always ready to greet you with a big bear hug and a silly joke. He lived his life to the fullest and he was always able to light up the room with his big smile, witty personality, and legendary one-liners. Michael constantly had a million things going on, but he always made time for family and friends. His infamous parties are legendary and an invite to these parties were coveted by all who knew him. Michael would host his annual Fourth of July party, attended by hundreds; with firework shows that rivaled Roger Williams Park. On his nights out Michael could usually be found at Twin Oaks, his favorite restaurant in Rhode Island.

Mostly, he will be remembered for his willingness to always help, his contagious laugh, and his immeasurable love for his wife, children, family, and friends. Michael was a dedicated coach who worked tirelessly and helped many young athletes involved with CLCF football and basketball. He thrived when working in the CLCF concession stand to help make it successful and enjoyable for all. 

Micheal leaves behind his loving wife Gina (D’Allesandro) and two children Giana and Michael. He is also survived by his parents Carmine “Buster” and Ruth Valelli,  sister Tribbie Zarra, her husband Eddie Zarra, as well as other loving members of the D’Allesandro family, multiple nieces, nephews, and his grandpuppy Willson. 

Robert Dole: Presidential Candidate, Senate Leader, and Decorated WWII Veteran Dies at 98

December 5, 2021

Robert Dole died early Sunday morning in his sleep, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation said. He was 98.

He dominated American politics for decades. But, he was nearly killed in World War II.

"As the old soldiers of World War II faded away, Mr. Dole, who had been a lieutenant in the Army’s storied 10th Mountain Division and was wounded so severely on a battlefield that he was left for dead, came to personify the resilience of his generation. In his post-political career, he devoted himself to raising money for the World War II Memorial in Washington and spent weekends there welcoming visiting veterans," reports the New York Times.

The Wall Street Journal reports, "Mr. Dole was a fixture on the Washington scene for more than half a century and a national leader of the Republican Party for nearly as long. As a legislator, and ultimately as leader of the Senate, he played a role on a staggering list of legislation touching every aspect of American society: voting rights, Social Security, food stamps, child-nutrition programs, the rights of the disabled, the North American Free Trade Agreement and more. As Congress’s chief tax writer, he was instrumental in the landmark Reagan-era tax cuts as well as in an overhaul of the nation’s tax code in 1986."

"Over the arc of a 36-year career in Congress, Mr. Dole underwent a steady but dramatic transformation. He once was seen as a partisan slasher, a reputation enhanced by his time as Republican National Committee chairman when he was a fierce defender of former President Richard Nixon during the Watergate crisis. In time, though, his partisan edges softened, and he worked with liberal icons George McGovern and Ted Kennedy on major legislation," write the WSJ.

For Rhode Islanders, there were many connections. He was a close ally of Senator John Chafee and the two served in the Senate leadership.

And, it was Dole who was a strong supporter of RI architect Fredrich St. Florian's design of Washington's WW II Memorial.

WWII Veteran Awarded Bronze Star, Francesco J. Nappi, Dies at 96

December 14, 2021

Frank J. Nappi passed away peacefully at his home early on the morning of December 13th at the age of 96.  

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Durante and Mary (Iasimone) Nappi.

He was a WWII Army veteran who served as a field medic. He earned several medals during his service in the armed forces, including The Bronze Star. He worked for Shaw Motors as a truck driver and proud member of The Teamsters Union for over 37 years, doing daily deliveries from Providence to Boston. It was in Boston that he would meet the love of his life, Anna Rossi. Frank and Ann were married for 67 years and had 3 beautiful daughters: Maryann, Arlene, and Theresa.

Mr. Nappi loved Frank Sinatra and he and his wife Ann saw him perform at the Fontainebleau in Miami in the 1950s. Some of his favorite things to do were listen to Sinatra, watch sports, and talk about the old days. He was also a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox and was very happy that he got to witness their historic championship run after so many years of heartbreak and misery.  

A fond memory the family will always cherish is the great Thanksgiving holiday just a couple of weeks ago.  Festivities began by going around the table with each person saying what they are thankful for. This one was special because we all knew it would most likely be his last and it was an opportunity for all to share some nice thoughts about each other. It was a fantastic day of family, food, drink, and music and he enjoyed himself thoroughly.

Mr. Nappi was predeceased by his wife Anna in 2016 and is survived by his 98-year-old brother Mike, his daughters Maryann Nappi of Warwick, Arlene Nappi-Della Selva and Theresa Kiernan of Cranston, his sons-in-law Anthony P Della Selva and John F Kiernan, and his beloved grandchildren Kaitlyn and Mitchell Kiernan, Olivia Nappi and Gianna, Talia and Anthony M. Della Selva. He was a brother of the late Joseph Nappi.

Archbishop Tutu Who Led Global Campaign to End South Africa’s Apartheid Dies at 90

December 26, 2021

Desmond Tutu, an Anglican archbishop who led a global campaign to end South Africa’s racist policies and then helped in healing the nation’s wounds, has died. He was 90 years old.

Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984.

The Mail & Guardian of Jahannesberg reports:

The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation confirmed the archbishop’s passing, saying: “We mourn his passing and extend deep sympathy to Mrs Nomalizo Leah Tutu [his wife] … siblings and their families. We commit ourselves to continue telling the story and emulating the example of this son of Africa who became an inspiring sign of peace, hope and justice across the world.” 

“Tutu spent the closing years of his life increasingly devoted to prayer and contemplation, in the Milnerton home he and his wife shared,” said the foundation. 

Expressing his heartfelt condolences in a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa said “the passing of … Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa”.Known affectionately as “the Arch,”  in announcing his retirement in 2010, Mr. Tutu had said he wanted to sip tea with his wife and spend more time with his grandchildren, and less in airports and hotels.

“In his richly inspiring yet challenging life, Desmond Tutu overcame tuberculosis, the brutality of the apartheid security forces and the intransigence of successive apartheid regimes. Neither Casspirs, teargas nor security agents could intimidate him or deter him from his steadfast belief in our liberation,” said Ramaphosa.

Harry Reid Dies at 82 - Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Who Overcame Poverty as a Child

December 29, 2021

{images_1}Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who rose from an early life of poverty to become the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, died Tuesday. He was 82.

Reid died after a four-year battle with pancreatic cancer, his wife, Landra Reid, said in a statement.

“We are so proud of the legacy he leaves behind both on the national stage and his beloved Nevada,” she said.

As the Senate’s top Democrat, Mr. Reid successfully blocked President George W. Bush from privatizing Social Security, and later helped enact the 2010 health-insurance law known as the Affordable Care Act. He also led a push to change the Senate’s procedures to confirm executive-branch nominees and most judges with a simple majority, a momentous move that permanently altered the chamber’s character.

Reid was born on Dec. 2, 1939, in Searchlight, NV, to "an alcoholic miner and a mother who took in laundry from brothels and card dealers at casinos," according to the WSJ.

His close political ally former President Barack Obama credits Reid, in part both with his winning office and with getting Obamacare passed.

“I wouldn’t have been president had it not been for your encouragement and support, and I wouldn’t have got most of what I got done without your skill and determination,” Mr. Obama wrote to Mr. Reid in a letter the former president shared on Twitter on Tuesday night.

 Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in a statement said, 

“Harry Reid was the kind of fighter I love: a fighter who knows how to win. Harry never wavered in his commitment to do what's right — especially for the people of Nevada. He led the Senate with courage and conviction, fighting every day for a more just America. I will never forget the night in 2008 when he first asked me to come to Washington. After the big banks crashed the economy, Harry wanted me to help oversee the bank bailout. I figured out that when Harry calls, say yes.

"Harry was a good man. He gave me a chance to serve, and he supported me every step of the way. I will miss him.”

Betty White Dies at 99

December 31, 2021

Betty White -- who starred in the Mary Tyler Moore Show and the Golden Girls -- has died at the age of 99, just weeks before what would have been her milestone 100th birthday. 

White is said to have passed away at her home on Friday morning.

She leaves behind a legacy as a comedienne, actress, author, animal rights activist, and one of the first female pioneers in television. 

White was one of the most beloved stars of Hollywood.

'Even though Betty was about to be 100, I thought she would live forever,' her agent and close friend Jeff Witjas said in a statement issued to People.

'I will miss her terribly and so will the animal world that she loved so much. I don't think Betty ever feared passing because she always wanted to be with her most beloved husband Allen Ludden. She believed she would be with him again.'  

According to the Daily Mail:

White was born in Oak Park, Illinois on January 17, 1922. Her legal name, 'Betty' is not a shortened version of 'Elizabeth' because her parents did not want their daughter saddled by any derivatives and nicknames like Beth, Liza and Ellie. 

White was an only child and liked it that way, she remembers her blissfully happy childhood as 'spoiled rotten, but taught to appreciate it.' 

Her family moved to Los Angeles in 1923 when she was just over a year old. She attended Beverly Hills High School and though she was interested in theater she said, her dream was to become a zookeeper or forest ranger. 'The problem was, back then a girl wasn't allowed to be either one,' she wrote in her autobiography. 

When she graduated high school in 1939, television was still a new frontier that had begun in New York but not yet started in California. Three months later, she was asked to do an experimental television show in downtown Los Angeles where she performed a waltz from The Merry Widow on the fifth floor of the Packard Automobile building. 'And it was broadcast all the way to the bottom floor. My parents had to stand in front of a tiny little monitor on the first floor to see me! But it was the beginning of television in Los Angeles.'   

PHOTO: Tim Reid, Emmy Awards CC: 2.0