Former Rhode Island Governor Edward DiPrete Passes Away

Categories: Breaking NewsGovernment NewsNews

In memory of former Rhode Island Governor Edward DiPrete.

News Summary

Edward DiPrete, the former Governor of Rhode Island, has died at the age of 91 on his birthday. His political career spanned decades, marked by economic growth and educational reforms, but also marred by corruption allegations. DiPrete served as governor from 1985 to 1991, leaving a complex legacy that influenced state politics significantly. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, with funeral arrangements pending.

Providence, Rhode Island – Former Rhode Island Governor Edward DiPrete has passed away at the age of 91. His death occurred on July 8, which coincidentally marked his 91st birthday. The news was confirmed by Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore through social media platform X, previously known as Twitter.

Rhode Island Speaker of the House Joseph Shekarchi expressed his condolences, emphasizing DiPrete’s long-standing dedication to public service throughout his political career. DiPrete’s influence in Rhode Island politics has been felt for decades, beginning with his initial foray into the political landscape as a member of the Cranston School Committee in 1970.

After serving on the Cranston City Council, DiPrete became the Mayor of Cranston. He was elected as the 70th governor of Rhode Island, serving from January 1985 until January 1991, as a member of the Republican Party. He was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, in 1934 and was educated at LaSalle Academy and the College of the Holy Cross. Further serving his country, DiPrete was in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959.

During his tenure as governor, DiPrete focused heavily on improving education, which resulted in significant advancements for many children within the state. His governance was marked by impressive economic performance, with unemployment rates declining to a record low of 2.9% in 1988. Winning three consecutive gubernatorial terms in 1984, 1986, and 1988, he was a prominent figure in Rhode Island’s political scene during the late 1980s.

Despite these accomplishments, DiPrete’s legacy is complicated by numerous allegations of corruption both during and after his time in office. He lost his re-election bid in 1990 to Democrat Bruce Sundlun, marking a significant turning point in his political career. Following his tenure, DiPrete faced serious legal challenges, being indicted in 1994 on various charges related to corruption, including racketeering, bribery, and extortion.

In 1998, DiPrete pleaded guilty to 18 felony counts and subsequently served one year in a work-release program. This sentence was met with mixed reactions, as some considered it lenient given the circumstances. After his release, DiPrete chose to largely retreat from public life, focusing on spending time with family.

DiPrete’s personal life was marked by the loss of his wife, Patricia, who passed away in 2011 after 55 years of marriage. He is survived by seven children and a number of grandchildren, who continue his legacy. Funerary arrangements for DiPrete have yet to be disclosed as the community reflects on his multifaceted life and career.

Political analysts have noted that while DiPrete’s time in office was characterized by economic growth and educational reforms, the dark shadow of his conviction and imprisonment for corruption continues to influence how his legacy is perceived in Rhode Island’s history.