News Summary
North Providence is grieving the recent deaths of two beloved community members, Thomas A. Kennedy and Peter Simone. Each leaves behind a legacy of service, family devotion, and an indelible impact on local residents. Kennedy was a dedicated family man and community leader, while Simone made notable contributions through his political service and family life. Their passing has created a significant void in the hearts of many, as both men were known for their kindness and leadership in various community endeavors.
North Providence is in mourning following the recent passing of two cherished residents, Thomas A. Kennedy, aged 87, and Peter Simone, aged 84. Their deaths have left a significant impact on the community, underscoring their contributions and the personal connections they fostered during their lives.
Thomas A. Kennedy, who died on October 5, 2025, was the beloved husband of Joyce (Russo) Kennedy for 62 years. Originally from Providence, he was the son of Leo and Ann (Halpin) Kennedy. Kennedy was a proud graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where he completed his studies in 1960 and was an active member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. As part of his commitment to service, he completed U.S. Navy Officer Training School in Newport, Rhode Island.
Throughout his career, Kennedy worked as an area manager for International Harvester before becoming Vice President at both Old Stone and Hospital Trust Banks. Following his banking career, he provided consulting services in commercial real estate development. Renowned for his kindness and integrity, Kennedy held numerous leadership roles, including serving as president of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island. He was also an active member of the What Cheer and Adelphoi #33 Masonic Lodges.
As a couple, Thomas and Joyce led the Community Feeding Ministry at The Church of the Master in Providence, reflecting their dedication to community service. Kennedy is survived by four children: Kimberly Doorley (James), Dale Kennedy (Barbara), Kristen Arruda (Rev. Barry), and David Kennedy (Jennifer), as well as eight grandchildren.
Visiting hours for Thomas will be held on October 9, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Maceroni Funeral Home in North Providence. His funeral service is scheduled for October 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Church of the Master, after which interment with military honors will take place at Highland Memorial Park in Johnston. In lieu of flowers, donations in Thomas’s memory may also be made to the Church’s Community Feeding Ministry.
Peter Simone passed away peacefully at home on October 3, 2025. He was the devoted husband of Irene A. (Psilopoulos) Simone for 63 years. Born on November 10, 1940, in Providence, Simone was the son of Peter and Antonette (Marchetti) Simone. He is survived by his daughters, Helene Macedo (Larry) and Annmarie Levin (Larry), and his grandson, Matthew Levin.
Simone graduated from LaSalle Academy in 1959 and attended St. Francis College in Biddeford, Maine. He enjoyed a successful career as an industrial engineer at Monet Jewelers. Beyond his professional life, Simone was actively involved in local politics, serving as a councilman for District 1 from 1983 to 2005. He played an instrumental role in the Rhode Island Senate Page program, which included his grandson’s participation.
Family was paramount to Simone, and he cherished his role as “Papa” to Matthew. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on October 11, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Church in North Providence, starting at 11 a.m. Afterward, burial will be private. Memorial contributions in Peter’s name can be made to LaSalle Academy or HopeHealth.
The loss of both Thomas A. Kennedy and Peter Simone has left a noticeable void in the hearts of many in North Providence, and their legacies of community service and familial devotion will not be forgotten.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Gerard Collins Obituary
- Wikipedia: North Providence, Rhode Island
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Peter Simone Obituary
- Google Search: Peter Simone Obituary
- Providence Journal: Thomas A. Kennedy Obituary
- Google Scholar: Thomas A. Kennedy
- Dignity Memorial: Damion Jackson Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island Senate
- Providence Journal: Maurice Tancrell Obituary
- Google News: Rhode Island Community News
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.
