Chief Joseph P. Razza

JOHNSTON, RI - Chief Joseph P. Razza, JPD, ret., 54 passed away peacefully at his home on September 29, 2023 in the arms of his loving wife and surrounded by his adoring family.  He was the devoted husband of Mandi (McCavanagh) Razza.  Born in Providence, he was the cherished son of Joan (Venditto) Razza and the late Pasco "Pat" Razza.

Joseph was a lifetime resident of Johnston and attended Johnston Public Schools.  He was a stellar athlete; notably competitive on the basketball court and football field.  He was an All-State football player and was inducted into the Johnston High School Athletic Hall of Fame.  He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice and an Associate Degree in Law Enforcement from Roger Williams University.  His career began with the Jamestown Police Department in May 1996.  He said he "left the picturesque shores of Jamestown for the ever-flowing traffic on Atwood Ave.".  Although he truly enjoyed the community and respected the residents of Jamestown, Johnston was home.  He joined the Johnston Police Department in 1998 and steadily rose through the ranks before becoming Police Chief in 2020.  He retired in 2022 due to illness.

Chief Razza was extremely honored to serve as Chief of Police.  He was a good listener, a dedicated public servant and a friend and mentor to many.  He had a deep dedication and commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents of Johnston.  During his 30 year career, Chief Razza received six letters of commendation for excellence in policing, three department ribbons for heroism and a meritorious achievement for seizure of stolen firearms and narcotics.  Most recently he was named RI Emergency Management Director of the Year, opening the largest and most productive local Covid-19 vaccination center in the state.  He was lead instructor in RI Motor Vehicle Code at the RI Municipal Training Academy and was accepted to the 285th FBI National Academy held in 2021.  He also participated in the Police Chiefs Association of Rhode Island and IBPO local 307.

Chief Razza's mantra was integrity. He was devoted to public safety and the community he was sworn to serve and protect.  He cared deeply about the quality of life of the residents of Johnston and was proud of the level of service and professionalism the department provides the residents of Johnston.  "Working Together - Making a Difference".

Joseph enjoyed spending quality time with his family, friends and colleagues.  He loved to entertain and was a generous and attentive host.  An avid runner, he could be seen daily running the streets of town.  In his downtime, he took meticulous care of his yard which he enjoyed alongside a "good soak" in his hot tub. He also enjoyed going for a ride in his Corvette.

Joseph leaves behind his beloved wife of 20 years, Mandi.  He is also survived by his mother Joan, to whom he was a primary caregiver.  He leaves behind his sister Karen Rainone and her husband Carl and his extended loving family and friends.  He was predeceased by his loyal and faithful companion, Frankie.

His Mass of Christian Burial, to which relatives and friends are welcome to attend, will be held on Thursday, October 5th at 11 AM at Our Lady of Grace Church, 15 George Waterman Rd., Johnston, followed by burial at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.  VISITING HOURS are Wednesday, October 4th from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Nardolillo Funeral Home, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, RI 02910.

In addition to flowers, you may consider a memorial donation in his memory to The Brain Tumor Research Fund at Rhode Island Hospital. Rhode Island Hospital Foundation, PO Box H Providence, RI 02901.