News Summary
John Ricci, a cherished craftsman in Providence, Rhode Island, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of family devotion and a passion for classic cars. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship and community spirit, John touched the lives of many through his work and love for restoring vehicles. His family will honor him with a Memorial Mass, encouraging attendees to bring classic cars to celebrate his legacy.
Providence, Rhode Island – John Ricci, a beloved husband, father, and craftsman, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy characterized by family, dedication to his craft, and a passion for classic cars. Born to Antonio and Theresa (Calderone) Ricci, John lived a full life marked by significant contributions to his family and community.
John Ricci is survived by his wife, Donna Ricci; his children John-Michael (with wife Kathleen) and Jennifer; his son-in-law Todd Snow; his grandchildren Isabelle and Derek; his sister, Louise Ricci; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. The family has scheduled a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for October 27, 2025, at Our Lady of Grace Church, Johnston, where attendees are encouraged to bring classic cars in his honor, reflecting John’s deep connection to automotive restoration and his community spirit. Burial will be private.
Career and Contributions
John Ricci was known for his mechanical inclination and craftsmanship, which he showcased during his 25-year tenure at Brown & Sharpe and later at Precision Tool Industries, where he worked until his retirement at age 75. He was particularly recognized for his attention to detail and dedication to quality in his work, allowing him to transform anything he set his hands on.
Beyond his professional achievements, John served in the U.S. Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis, showcasing his commitment to his country. His experiences shaped a man who was not only an accomplished craftsman but also a dedicated citizens and family man.
Passion for Family and Hobby
John met his future wife, Donna, at a dance hall on his 28th birthday, marking the beginning of a partnership that would last more than 57 years. Together, they built their family home and raised three children: John-Michael Ricci, Jennifer Ricci, and the late Jaclyn (Ricci) Snow. John’s love for his family translated into numerous projects, such as restoring classic cars and building intricate items with his children, which reflected their time spent together and his desire to pass on his skills.
John had a lifelong passion for classic cars, with his most significant restoration project being a 1934 Cadillac Convertible Coupe Roadster, which he purchased in 1966 and spent three years restoring alongside family members. This endeavor showcased his skills and patience, which came to define many of his projects, including working on vehicles like a 56 Chevy pickup and a 72 Chevy Cheyenne with his son John-Michael. He also built a detailed Victorian dollhouse with his daughter Jennifer and a general store with his daughter Jaclyn, bonding over these creations.
Community Legacy
John was not just a family man; he was also a dedicated neighbor and community member. Known for being helpful, he would often lend tools, share advice, or engage in friendly conversation with those around him. His presence enriched the lives of many who had the pleasure of knowing him, and he left a lasting impression on his entire community.
Conclusion
John Ricci lived a life defined by love for his family, dedication to his craft, and a passion for classic automobiles. His legacy will continue through his surviving family, friends, and community members, who remember him not only for his skills and craftsmanship but also for his kind heart and tireless dedication to those he loved.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal Obituary: John Ricci
- GoLocalProv: Vehicle Collision in Providence
- Providence Journal: Great Race Classic Car Rally
- Wikipedia: Classic Car
- Google Search: Classic Automotive History
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
