Richard A. DeAngelis

Richard DeAngelis, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away leaving behind a legacy defined by faith, family, service, and quiet joy.

Born to Romeo DeAngelis and Diane DeAngelis (Pelland), Richard lived a life rooted in love and responsibility. First and foremost, he was a family man. He devoted his life to his wife, Paula DeAngelis; his children, Jared DeAngelis and Jessica Burns; and his cherished grandchildren, Mia DeAngelis, Caleb DeAngelis, Zachery Pereira, Bianca Burns, and Sophia Burns. He took great pride in his family and found deep joy in being present for both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of their lives.

In his younger years, Richard was a gifted athlete. He was an All Class football player at Barrington High School and went on to play at the University of Rhode Island. An injury brought his football career to an early end, after which he went on to complete his education at Bryant University, graduating in 1973. The discipline and resilience he developed through sports stayed with him throughout his life.

Richard was a devoted member of the Armenian Evangelical Church of Rhode Island, where he was active in church affairs and known as a loving, reliable presence to all who knew him. He especially enjoyed playing Santa Claus at the church’s annual Christmas celebrations, a role that reflected his warmth, generosity, and playful spirit.

Richard was an avid fisherman who loved being on the water and took great pleasure in teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish, patiently passing down both skill and tradition. He was deeply involved in his children’s lives—coaching his son’s baseball teams and never missing his wrestling matches or a chance to attend his daughter’s soccer, basketball, or softball games. His love of sports continued on through his grandchildren.

Richard was very involved in his son’s Boy Scout troop, Troop 20. He loved being hands on in the woods, teaching and learning whenever he could. He made many life long friendships while scouting with son and will be greatly missed by those men that felt like family.

Known as a true “Mr. Fix-It,” Richard could repair nearly anything. Whether working around the house or helping a neighbor, he was always willing to drop what he was doing to lend a helping hand. His generosity and dependability left a lasting impression on those around him.

One of his greatest joys was opening his backyard pool every summer, a tradition he began in 1991. More than three decades later, the pool remained crystal clear thanks to his dedication, becoming a gathering place for family, laughter, and lifelong memories. He also enjoyed making numerous “dump runs” with Zack that was usually followed by a stop to Wein-O-Rama.

Richard had a lifelong love of animals, both domestic and wild, and showed the same affection toward his children and grandchildren’s pets as he did his own. In true 1970s fashion, he also took special pride in his Corvette, a favorite possession that reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship, style, and a little fun.

One of Richard’s most cherished routines was picking up his granddaughter each Sunday to attend church with him—a simple yet meaningful tradition that spoke to his faith, devotion, and love for family.

He is survived by his wife, Paula DeAngelis; his son, Jared DeAngelis, and daughter-in-law, Caitlin DeAngelis; his daughter, Jessica Burns, and son-in-law, Zachary Burns; and his beloved grandchildren.

Richard DeAngelis will be remembered for his steady presence, servant’s heart, athletic spirit, and the countless quiet ways he made life better for those around him.

His Funeral will be held on Wednesday, December 31st at 9:30 a.m. from the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. at the Armenian Evangelical Church, 180 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston.  Burial will be private.

VISITING HOURS will be Tuesday, December 30th from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Providence Animal Shelter, 200 Terminal Road, Providence, RI 02905.