Angelina "Tina" G. (Butera) aRusso

Angelina G. (Butera) aRusso, “Tina”, 97 of Johnston, passed away Friday, January 5, 2024.  She was the beloved wife of the late Johnston Mayor Ralph R. aRusso.  Born in Johnston, she was the daughter of the late Salvatore and Gesualda “Jessie” (Rotondo) Butera.

Mrs. aRusso was the devoted mother of Donna M. Muto (Gerald) of Brunswick, ME, Diana M. Mollicone (Michael) of Johnston, Dennis P. aRusso (Sharon) of East Greenwich, David M. aRusso (Laurie) of Johnston and the late Denise P. Valletta; cherished grandmother of Michael Valletta, Sarah Pereira, Justin Muto, Dominic aRusso, David aRusso, Jr., Anthony aRusso, Bianca (aRusso) McCabe, Sabrina Mollicone and Michael Mollicone; loving great grandmother of Angelina, Mia, Wesley, Josephine, Rory, Eliza, Felix, Siena and Nico; and dear sister of Ann Langford of Johnston and the late Salvatore “Sam” Butera, Jr.

Tina’s abundant love and devotion for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren speaks volumes about her maternal spirit. She found great purpose and joy embracing each one of her family members as a cherished part of her journey. One beautiful expression of her love and creativity was her talent for planning and hosting festive “themed” events and parties for her family. Whether she was building a family float for a patriotic parade, making costumes for family theme nights, or simply adding to her collection of party hats, Tina’s love was the center of each celebration. An important part of each of these special gatherings was an abundance of Tina’s homemade Italian food and lots and lots of her delicious cookies. Another one of her precious gifts was her sense of humor. Her knack for snappy comebacks and her ability to infuse laughter into her days have created bonds and memories that her loved ones will treasure forever, bringing smiles even in her absence. Her witty remarks will be cherished always. Tina’s legacy and love has left an indelible mark on her family forever.

Her funeral will be held on Friday, January 12th at 10 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 1804 Atwood Ave., Johnston at 11 a.m.  Burial will be at Highland Memorial Park, Johnston.  VISITING HOURS are Friday morning from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Hasbro Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box H., Providence, RI 02901-9979.