Joseph P. Procaccini, M.D.

67, of Johnston, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the Philip Hulitar Hospice Inpatient Center in Providence. Joseph was the cherished husband of Alberta F. (Ristigian) Procaccini. Born in Providence, he was a son of Martha (Bellotti) Procaccini and the late Joseph Procaccini. Besides his wife, he is survived by his loving son Joseph M. Procaccini of Johnston. Joseph was the brother of Martha Nardacci (husband Nick) and Charles Procaccini (wife Robyn). He was brother-in law to Albert Ristigian Jr., Renee Gasparri (husband Chris), Karen Laflamme (husband Claude) and Judith Ristigian. He also leaves behind many adored nieces and nephews; Nicholas Nardacci and his wife Valery, Loriann Nardacci and her partner Nicholas Mauro, Jacqueline Gasparri, Julianna Procaccini, Maria Procaccini, Alexandra Laflamme, Talia Laflamme and Alex Zayat. Joseph was the great uncle of Leonardo Nardacci. Joseph graduated with high honors from LaSalle Academy. He was a summa cum laude graduate of Manhattan College and a magna cum laude graduate of Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE. He completed a Family Practice residency at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ. He started his career as a part-time emergency room physician in Washington DC where he was also employed at NIH. Joseph opened a private Medical Practice in Johnston RI from 1980-1993. He was a clinical instructor in Family Medicine at Brown University School of Medicine from 1984 to 1993. He then began his career at Reliant Medical Group in MA, where he worked in Adult Urgent care from 1993 to the present. His colleagues often commented what a difference one person makes in the lives of others. They have described "Dr. Joe" as someone with a following of fans that included patients', colleagues and staff. His calm demeanor and soothing voice helped many through challenging times. His colleagues looked to him for his wisdom, intelligence and wonderful wit. The family wishes to acknowledge their gratitude and deep appreciation to Dr. Joseph DiBenedetto, Jr. and his wife Pat. Dr. DiBenedetto was a friend for more than 30 years. As Joseph's physician, he gave him the greatest gift of many quality years beyond what was one would expect, given his rare diagnosis. Joseph was the most loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend and colleague. He believed his purpose in life was to be of service to those who were ill and needed help. He will be missed by all. If you wish to make a donation in memory of Joseph P. Procaccini, please make it to the Tomorrow Fund. His funeral will be held from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Wednesday at 8:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish, 239 Regent Avenue, Providence at 10 a.m. Burial will take place in Highland Memorial Park Cemetery, Johnston. VISITING HOURS: Tuesday from 5-8 p.m.

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