News Summary
The North Kingstown community is in mourning after the recent passing of two beloved residents, Debra Gentile and Fenwick Gardiner. Debra, known for her compassion, leaves behind a loving family. Fenwick, who passed away suddenly, was remembered for his vibrant energy and connections within the community. Memorial services are planned to honor their lives and provide support for grieving family and friends. The impact of their absence is profoundly felt in the town.
North Kingstown, RI – Two cherished residents of North Kingstown have recently passed away, leaving behind family and friends who are mourning their loss.
Debra M. (Avarista) Gentile, age 70, died on October 22, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Joseph Gentile, Jr., and her children, Liza Gentile and her partner Will Davidian, and Kayla (Gentile) Kennedy and her husband Jeff, who are eagerly awaiting the birth of their daughter. Debra had two sisters, Joyce Muir-Pastore and Jean Avarista, and a sister-in-law, Stella Gentile. Her obituary was posted online on October 24, 2025, and it was also published in the Providence Journal.
Fenwick G. Gardiner III, 39, passed away suddenly on October 14, 2025. He is survived by his parents, Fenwick and Coreen Gardiner, who live in North Kingstown. Fenwick also leaves behind his sister, Mykahla, and her husband Matthew, along with their two children, Matthew and Mary-Rose, who also reside in North Kingstown. Additionally, he is survived by his grandmother, M. Arlene Gardiner, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, including his close companion Nicole Johnson from Boston. Fenwick was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Arthur and Helen Desmarais, and his paternal grandfather, Fenwick G. Gardiner Sr.. His obituary was posted online on October 21, 2025, and published in the Providence Journal.
In terms of memorial services, calling hours for Fenwick Gardiner will be held at Fagan-Quinn Funeral Home in North Kingstown on Sunday, October 26th, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Following this, there will be a gathering in procession at the funeral home on Monday, October 27th, at 9:30 a.m. This will be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Bernard Church in North Kingstown at 11:00 a.m. The family has requested a private burial. In lieu of flowers, they are encouraging donations to the North Kingstown Food Pantry.
The passing of both Debra Gentile and Fenwick Gardiner has deeply impacted the North Kingstown community. Debra was known for her compassion and the strong connections she maintained with her family and friends, serving as a guiding presence in their lives. Fenwick, remembered for his vibrant energy, was well-regarded by those who knew him, and his untimely death has left a significant void among his loved ones.
As the community comes to terms with these losses, memorials will not only celebrate their lives but also provide an opportunity for grieving family members and friends to share cherished memories together.
Both obituaries illustrate the loving relationships each had fostered throughout their lives, showcasing the importance of family and friendship within North Kingstown. As the town mourns their passing, it also embraces the legacy they leave behind.
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Additional Resources
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Debra Gentile
- Providence Journal: Obituaries
- Legacy: Indy Littlefield Obituary
- Google Search: North Kingstown RI obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituaries
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