Stephen W. Avanzino, Sr.

passed away peacefully in Narragansett, RI on July 27, surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Roslyn, NY, the son of Laurence and Elizabeth, Steve grew up in Roslyn, Plandome, NY, Tenafly, NJ, and Narragansett before moving with his young family to New Canaan, CT, where he lived for many years. As a youth, he competed in wrestling and was the drummer in a garage band that named themselves “The Sabers”. 

After attending several of the nation’s institutions of higher learning, he graduated with a BA in Economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara before embarking on a career in advertising, which culminated in the foundation of his own agency. In his twenties, he ran unsuccessfully for the non-existent office of the Mayor of Narragansett, RI.

He and his friends had campaign pins made, as well as shirts printed with his campaign motto: “Electamundo - it starts with the fingers.”

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Nancy (Picchione), and their 3 children, Stephen, Jr. (Meghan) of Rye Brook, NY, Jeffrey (Ashleigh) of Pawcatuck, CT, and Alyssa Alphin (Albert) of Canton, MA. He is also survived by his sister, Adele (Loring) DeMartini of Las Vegas, NV, and was predeceased by his parents and his brothers Laurence, Kenneth, and Bruce. He eagerly anticipated summers and other visits with his 7 grandchildren Ann, Evelyn, Lillian, Grace, Stephen William “Will” III, Adelaide, and Brooke. Loved by his many nieces, nephews, brothers- and sisters-in law, family was the centerpiece of his life and he will be dearly remembered.

 A member of The Dunes Club, and formerly a member of Point Judith Country Club, Steve loved days at the beach and on the golf course. A connoisseur of motor vehicles, especially European imports, it is believed he owned over 200 cars during his lifetime.

 A Roman Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Thomas More in Narragansett at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 1. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood to your local blood bank or making a contribution to The Jimmy Fund.