Joseph Florio, Jr.

FLORIO, Joseph, Jr., 77, of West Warwick, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at Rhode Island Hospital.

He was the beloved and cherished husband of Bridget A. Skuce.  Born in West Warwick, he was the son of the late Joseph “Chewy” and Ida (Allegretto) Florio. Joseph grew up in the Natick section surrounded by his large, loving Italian-American family.

Joseph served as an agent and Manager with John Hancock Insurance Company for many years until retiring in 1990.  He was a graduate of West Warwick High School and attended Providence College.  He proudly served with the U.S. Army Reserve 443rd Civil Affairs Unit, was Past President of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America and an organizer of the Federal Hill Annual Columbus Day Parade.  Elected in 2010, Joseph was a trusted and respected member of the West Warwick School Committee.  He was very happy to volunteer in the WW Public Schools Mentor Program and was very proud of the accomplishments of his mentees. Joe served as President of the Verrazzano Day Observance Committee and as a Member of Post #8 Italian-American War Veterans in Cranston. He had been a member of the Vince Lombardi Lodge #2357 for 21 years.

Joseph had an exuberance, vitality and determination that energized and warmed the hearts of everyone who knew him. He met every challenge and opportunity with grace and determination. An avid reader, Joseph was incredibly knowledgeable on many topics, especially Astronomy, American History, and anything Rhode Island. He had the incredible gift of easy conversation and kindness to everyone. Joseph was a remarkable gentleman whose dynamic life, impact and beautiful light will forever shine.

Besides his wife he leaves his four deeply loved children, Jamie Florio (Shannon) of Rochester, New Hampshire, Dawn Stevens of Exeter, New Hampshire, David Florio of Coventry and Joseph Florio, III of Scituate; seven cherished grandchildren, Carson, Chloe, Nicholas, Matthew, Isabella, Avery Rose and Jaelynn, and two devoted and loving sisters, Mary Ricci (Peter) and Rose Florio.  He was the brother of the late Josephine DiGregorio, John and Michael Florio. He leaves many loved nephews and nieces, friend Annette Rocheford and several life-long friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Service on Monday, May 10, 2021 at 10:00 am in the PRATA-GALLOGLY Funeral Home, 78 Providence St., West Warwick.  Interment will follow with military honors in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Greenwich.  Visiting hours Sunday 3:00-6:00 pm (all COVID guidelines will be observed).  In lieu of flowers, contributions to PAN Foundation (www.panfoundation.org) or The Assistance Fund (www.tafcares.org), specifically for the Pulmonary Hypertension Program in his memory would be appreciated.  Information and condolences please visit: www.PrataGallogly.com

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