Raymond R. DiCecco, Sr

74, of Cranston, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at RI Hospital, Providence. He was the beloved husband of 54 years to Ruth (Piscione) DiCecco. Raymond was born in Providence, a son of the late Salvatore and Concetta (Valente) DiCecco. Mr. DiCecco was the Principal at Hugh B. Bain Middle School in Cranston for many years until his retirement.
Besides his beloved wife he is survived by his loving children, Denise Marchetti and her husband Donald of Cranston, Donna Haskins of Cranston and Raymond R. DiCecco, Jr and his wife Kimberly of East Greenwich. He was also the dear brother of William DiCecco of FL and cherished grandfather of 9. Raymond was also the brother of the late Anthony and Salvatore DiCecco and Cecilia L'Europa.
Raymond was recognized both nationally and locally for his strong commitment to education. He received numerous awards including "In Honor of Excellence in Education" as the State of Rhode Island Principal of the Year which was presented to him at the White House by the National Association for Secondary School Principals (NASSP) in 1984.
Along with his full-time commitment to childhood education, he taught in the classroom and served as an academic counselor at Johnson and Wales University for 17 years. After his formal retirement from education, Ray spent 10 years as a supervisor with Smoke Clean of RI where he further demonstrated his diversity of skills.
Raymond was a powerful soul of unwavering loyalty and moral fortitude. He provided a beacon to the lost and served as an anchor to all who knew him. In a world of perpetual change, he offered a harbor of consistency and calm. He was a family man, an educator, a mentor and friend. A presence who influenced countless lives. His departure left a hole in the universe but added an angel in the heavens.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday evening from 4-7 pm in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. His funeral will be held on Monday from the funeral home at 9:45 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in St. Ann's Church, Hawkins St., Providence. Burial will take place in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

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