Anthony "Tony the Barber" Manzi

96, of Cranston, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 13, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary (Marino) Manzi. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Antonio and Mary (Pagliarini) Manzi.

Tony was part of “The Greatest Generation” serving in World War II as a 3rd Class Aviation Ordinance Man in the US Navy. He started as a barber in 1947, joining his father at Manzi’s Barber Shop. He continued to operate the business for 68 years, and it has been said that whenever someone wanted to know what was happening in Knightsville, you went to Manzi’s Barber Shop. Later in life, it was his joy to work alongside his brother Ralph for several years as he cherished their time together. Upon retirement, he was cited by the City of Cranston for operating “the oldest independent business in Knightsville”.

He played the accordion for many years with many local musicians, including the late Ray (Dixon) Beaudoin and Joe Vessella. He, along with Peter DiPiro, later formed The Peter Mann Band. Their band performed at many weddings and functions all over the state.

He was an avid dancer and found himself on the dance floor well into his 90’s most Saturday nights. For over twenty years he was accompanied on the dance floor by his partner, the late Dolores Parrillo.

Living in the heart of Knightsville, he always looked forward to the annual St. Mary’s Feast & Celebration, hosting family and friends with his band playing in his backyard into the early morning hours.

He was involved in many organizations, serving as a CYO Advisor for St. Mary’s, Past Chairman of the St. Mary’s Reunion Committee, Member of City Hall AC Golf League and a Charter Member of the Holy Name Society at St. Mary’s.

Tony is survived his loving children, Anthony Manzi of Cranston, and Donna Manzi-Lavallee and her husband Steven of Cumberland; cherished grandchildren, Steven and Lauren Lavallee, Giana, Anthony and JohnMichael Manzi. He was the dear brother of Susie Savasta, Ralph Manzi and the late Theresa Darzio. He is also survived by his companion Constance Kazarian and his daughter-in-law Connie Manzi.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Wednesday at 9:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Mary’s Church, Cranston. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 N Main St., Providence, RI 02904. 

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