Maria C. Paone

Maria C. Paone, born on February 24, 1943, in Providence, RI, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025. Maria was a dedicated operating room nurse whose meticulous nature and innate caregiving abilities profoundly impacted all who knew her. Unfortunately, her career was cut short by a tragic car accident, yet her spirit of care continued to shine brightly in her personal life, where she became the most reliable and cherished babysitter for the entire family.

This extended family saw to it that there were always little ones to care for from her sister's children, to her cousin Victoria's boys and the generations of the Antonnelli/Bacon clan. Auntie “Ria” could be counted on for a school pickup, a play date, craft days and when they were all older a trusted confidant, every imaginable card and board game instructor and occasionally a disciplinarian.

All who knew her knew that Maria held a special place in her heart for St. Mary’s Day. This cherished celebration marked a significant time of year for her, as she devoted months preparing for the festivities that accompanied the week of the feast. With an unwavering commitment to sharing the rich history of St. Mary’s Day with younger generations, Maria would save her money to purchase toys, flags and ride tickets ensuring that the importance and excitement of the day was never lost on them. No celebration of St. Mary’s would have been complete without her preparation of hundreds, if not thousands, of meatballs and the setting up of the yard for the feast with helpers from each generation essentially drafted into service. She did this as a testament to her love for family traditions.

Following the passing of her mother, she stepped into the role of matriarch, ensuring that these family traditions were preserved and passed down to future generations. Her warmth and nurturing nature earned her the endearing title of "Auntie Ria," a role she embraced not only with her younger cousins but also with every one of their friends she encountered.

Maria's interests were as vibrant as her personality. A true Disney enthusiast, she had a profound love for all things Mickey Mouse. Her home was adorned with memorabilia collected over the years, each one a reflection of her joy and passion for these beloved characters.

Maria is survived by her Aunt Libby DelGuidice, nephew, Paul G. DelBonis. His wife Regina great nieces, Angela DelBonis and Nicole Washburn. And many cousins and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Angela (Montecalvo) Paone; father, Benny Paone; sister, Diane A. Paone DelBonis; nephew, Christopher J. DelBonis; and godson, Keith M. Gibb.

Maria C. Paone leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories that will forever echo in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed yet fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Visitation will be held at Nardolillo Funeral Home, located at 1278 Park Ave, Cranston, RI, on December 22, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a Mass at St. Mary Church, located at 1525CranstonStreet, Cranston, RI, at 11:00AM. Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery.