Dena M. (Gauvin) Nardolillo

In Loving Memory of Dena Nardolillo

July 21, 1968 – May 14, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dena Nardolillo—a beloved wife, mother, soon to be grandmother, daughter, niece, and friend—who left us on May 14, 2025.

Dena was the heart and soul of her family. A devoted wife to Anthony Nardolillo and a loving mother to Brian Lackey, Kaylee Coleman, and Anthony Nardolillo Jr., she was also a caring and supportive mother-in-law to Samantha Davenport and Christopher Coleman, and a soon-to-be mother-in-law to Jacqueline Rega-Costa. She built her home on a foundation of love, compassion, and selflessness. Her unwavering support and boundless affection shaped the lives of those closest to her.

She is survived by her loving parents, Roslyn and Raymond Gauvin; her dear Aunt Kathy Dionne; and her best friend of 53 years, Karen Abramson—each of whom was touched by her kindness, loyalty, and strength.

Dena’s compassion extended beyond people to the animals she adored, especially dogs. Through her devoted work in fostering, she provided countless dogs with safety, love, and a second chance at life. Her impact on the rescue community will never be forgotten.

In her quiet moments, Dena found peace and joy in crocheting. Her handmade blankets, scarves, and thoughtful gifts were more than just crafts—they were tangible expressions of her warmth, patience, and generosity.

In her last few weeks of her beautiful life, she found peace serenity, and happiness while spending time with her husband at their beach house

Dena’s gentle spirit, radiant love, and enduring strength will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A service to celebrate Dena’s life will be held on Thursday, May 22nd, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory in Cranston.

Her funeral will be Friday, May 23rd at 9:45 AM from the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in Sts. John and Paul Church, Coventry.  Inurnment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Greenwich.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her name to Friends of Homeless Animals, honoring her lifelong devotion to animals in need.

Dena has now joined her beloved grandparents, Irene and Raymond Bouchard; her aunt, Karen Vespia; her cherished mother- and father-in-law, Anthony and Dorothy Nardolillo; and all the dogs she lovingly cared for who have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.

Now reunited with those she loved—two- and four-legged—her spirit lives on.