News Summary
The Rehoboth community is grieving the unexpected losses of local figures Richard J. Kenney and Nick DiGiammo. Both men made significant contributions to the area, and their families and friends remember the joy they brought to the community. Tributes and memorial plans highlight the impact these individuals had on those around them.
Rehoboth, MA Community Mourns Loss of Local Figures Richard J. Kenney and Nick DiGiammo Following Recent Deaths
The Rehoboth community is grieving the unexpected losses of two beloved local figures, Richard J. Kenney and Nick DiGiammo, who both passed away in April 2025. Their contributions to the community and the love they showed for their families and friends have left a lasting impact that will be deeply felt.
Richard J. Kenney
Richard J. Kenney, 62, of Rehoboth, MA, died unexpectedly on April 9, 2025. Born in Providence, RI, Richard was the son of Shirley (Robillard) Kenney and the late Raymond J. Kenney. He made his home in Rehoboth for several years, where he established himself as the Owner & Operator of Ray Kenney Landscaping Service, known particularly for his expertise in organic vegetable gardening.
Beyond his professional life, Richard enjoyed a variety of hobbies including reading, woodworking, and fishing. He is survived by his mother, a sister Cheryl Kenney, her husband James Ricci, and a nephew, Jonathan Kenney. Richard was predeceased by his brothers Raymond and Colleen Kenney.
His Funeral Service is scheduled for April 26, 2025, at the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME in Riverside, RI, with calling hours from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. A private burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard’s memory can be made to Crossroads Rhode Island.
Nick DiGiammo
Nick DiGiammo, born on May 20, 1953, in Fall River, MA, also touched many lives. The son of the late Nicholas A. DiGiammo and Elvira (Alves) DiGiammo, Nick graduated from Somerset High School and furthered his education at Bristol Community College. He had a successful career at Raytheon before founding K.N.D. Machine Co., where he worked for over 30 years.
Known for his love of family and community, Nick was involved in numerous community-building endeavors. He enjoyed outdoor activities, such as hunting, riding his Harley motorcycle, and tending to his yard work. Nick is survived by his wife Debra, daughter Kelly DiGiammo, son Nicholas A. DiGiammo, a sister Rosemary Costa and her husband Augustine, along with two grandsons. He is also remembered for his cherished pets, including his two dogs, Rocky and Sandy, as well as the chickens he kept at his property.
In recognition of the exceptional care he received during his illness, Nick’s family expressed their gratitude to the staff at Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Brigham & Women’s Hospital. A celebration of Nick’s life will take place on September 6, 2025, at the family’s home in Rehoboth, with RSVPs requested by August 30.
Community Reaction
The unexpected deaths of Richard and Nick have left a profound sense of loss in Rehoboth. Both men were pillars of their community, known for their hard work, generosity, and kindness. Friends, family, and neighbors are coming together to remember their contributions and celebrate the lives they lived.
In this time of mourning, the community is reminded of the importance of coming together to support one another as they cherish the memories of Richard J. Kenney and Nick DiGiammo. Their legacies will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
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Additional Resources
- W.R. Watson Funeral Home: Richard J. Kenney
- Dignity Memorial: Nicholas DiGiammo
- Hathaway Funerals: Pastor Brian Weeks
- Providence Journal: Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Obituary
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