News Summary
Recent losses in the Cranston community have brought families and friends together to honor the legacies of cherished individuals. Notable figures, including Pasquale Santonastaso, Kathy Cranston, Mary P. Tasca, and Linda Ferguson Cranston, are remembered for their contributions to the community. Each person’s funeral service reflects their unique stories and lasting impact on those around them, emphasizing the importance of family and legacy in times of grief.
Cranston Residents Honor Their Deceased Community Members
Several community members from Cranston and surrounding areas recently passed away, leaving heartfelt legacies and cherished memories for their families and friends. Notable individuals include Pasquale Santonastaso, Kathy Cranston, Mary P. Tasca, and Linda Ferguson Cranston, all of whom made significant contributions to their communities.
Pasquale Santonastaso
Pasquale Santonastaso, aged 83, passed away on October 22, 2025, in Cranston, surrounded by his family. He dedicated a large part of his life to his work as a tool maker for Esposito Jewelry in Providence, retiring after many years of service. Pasquale is survived by his wife, Josefina (Henderson) Santonastaso, his daughter Maria Santonastaso, and his sister Maria Conte. He is also remembered for his close bond with Bella Henderson, who he cherished as a granddaughter, as well as being a beloved uncle to many nephews and nieces.
Pasquale’s funeral service is scheduled for October 28, 2025, at the Nardolillo Funeral Home, starting at 9:00 a.m.. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church in Cranston, with burial to take place at St. Ann Cemetery. Visitation hours are set for Monday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so online at NardolilloFH.com.
Kathy Cranston
Kathy Cranston, aged 71, formerly of Hatton, passed away at her home on April 30, 2025. Born on January 12, 1954, in Rugby, North Dakota, Kathy graduated from Esmond High School in 1972 and married Donald “Scott” Cranston on October 7, 1972. Her professional life included working at Prairie Village Nursing Home in Hatton, where she was known for her problem-solving skills and love for crossword puzzles. Kathy enjoyed gardening, birdwatching, and spending time with her pets as well as playing casino slots.
Survived by her daughter Lisa (Jeff) Clucas, son Randy (Mandie) Cranston, and numerous grandchildren, Kathy faced several hardships with the loss of her parents and husband, and siblings Greg, Jack, and Jackie.
Kathy’s funeral service takes place on May 8, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church in Hatton, commencing at 2:00 p.m..
Mary P. Tasca
Mary P. Tasca (Reddington), aged 97, passed away on October 18, 2025, in Cranston. She was married to Earl E. Tasca for 67 years and is survived by five children: Patricia Marshall (John), Mary Ann (William), Barry (Lisa), Kathleen, and Ann Marie Torres (George). Mary was also a proud grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of seven.
Mary spent a successful career at New England Telephone, where she was recognized as a notable member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. Her funeral is arranged for October 23, with a Mass at St. Veronica’s Chapel, and burial to follow at St. Ann Cemetery. Donations in her memory may be made to the Earl & Mary Tasca Cranston East Scholarship Fund or the St. Francis Xavier Alumnae Association.
Linda Ferguson Cranston
Linda Ferguson Cranston, born on September 17, 1944, passed away due to a stroke on September 24, 2025, while traveling. She was married to David Cranston for over 65 years and was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Shelley (Chris Brown) and Cathy (Charles Cranston). Linda made significant contributions as an obstetrics nurse and wrote an unpublished book detailing her nursing experiences. She was actively involved in 4-H, loved gardening, and worked on initiatives to combat food insecurity.
A celebration of Linda’s life will occur at the First Presbyterian Church in Grinnell, IA, on November 1, 2025, with visitation on October 31. Her burial will take place at a later date at Golden Rod Cemetery in Deep River, IA.
These recent losses have touched many lives, reminding the Cranston community of the importance of family and legacy.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Rachel Rodi Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Andrew Spirito Sr. Obituary
- Google Search: Obituaries
- Stevenson Funeral Home: Kathy Cranston Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Tukios: Kathy Cranston’s Life Celebration
- Google News: Cranston Obituaries
- Providence Journal: Cranston Community Obituaries
- Des Moines Register: Cranston Area Obituaries
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