News Summary
Kenneth R. Johnson Sr., an esteemed community leader and dedicated family man from Warwick, Rhode Island, has passed away at the age of 87. He is remembered for his commitment to community service, particularly through the VASA Order of America, where he established the first scholarship fund. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he left behind a legacy of love and dedication. Memorial services are scheduled to honor his significant contributions to the community and family.
Warwick, RI – Kenneth R. Johnson Sr., 87, Longtime Rhode Island Community Leader and Family Man, Passes Away
Kenneth R. Johnson Sr., a well-known community leader and family man from Warwick, Rhode Island, passed away on October 10, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by his family. He is remembered for his dedicated service to the community and his commitment to his family.
Until his retirement, Kenneth worked as a loan officer for Hospital Trust Bank, where he made significant contributions to financial services in the region. He was married to Linda D. (Josephson) Johnson for 61 years, sharing a life full of love and dedication.
Kenneth is survived by two children, Kenneth R. Johnson Jr. (spouse Diane) and Kristen M. DaRosa (spouse Daniel), and he was a proud grandfather to Kenneth R. Johnson III (spouse Alexa) and Lauren DaRosa. His family exemplified his enduring legacy of love and commitment.
Active Community Contributions
Kenneth’s involvement in the Rhode Island community was substantial. He was a dedicated member of the Rhode Island district 3 VASA Order of America for 55 years, participating in various initiatives and leadership roles. In 1981, he took the initiative to establish the organization’s first scholarship fund, demonstrating his commitment to supporting education and the younger generation.
Additionally, he served as the past chairman of the Little Rhody VASA Park and the Johan Baner Lodge, further underlining his deep engagement with the community and his leadership skills.
Early Life and Education
Kenneth was born in Warwick, RI, to Frank C. Johnson Sr. and Dorothy M. (Morin) Johnson. He was part of the first graduating class of Warwick Veteran’s High School in 1956 and later attended Bryant University, which laid the foundation for his successful career. He had several siblings, including Raymond E. Johnson Sr. (spouse Rosemary), in addition to his late brothers and sisters.
Memorial Services and Contributions
A visitation is scheduled for October 17, 2025, from 4-7 PM, followed by a service at 7 PM at the Thomas and Walter Quinn Funeral Chapel in Warwick. The family has requested that burial be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are encouraged to be made to the Little Rhody VASA Park or VNA of Care New England, honoring Kenneth’s enduring service and commitment to both personal connections and community support.
Kenneth R. Johnson Sr. will be fondly remembered by all those who knew and loved him for his unwavering kindness, leadership, and his legacy of community involvement and family dedication.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Recent Obituaries
- Google Search: Kenneth R. Johnson Sr.
- Dignity Memorial: Paul Earnshaw Obituary
- Google Scholar: Rhode Island Community Leadership
- Iannotti Funeral Home: Jared Coons Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Leadership
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