News Summary
The Providence community is grieving the loss of three cherished residents: Joan Bucci, Peter Simone, and John Nickelson. Each left a lasting impact on family and friends, with services planned to honor their lives. Joan devoted nearly five decades to education, Peter was a dedicated family man, and John was a beloved husband and father. Their contributions to the community will be remembered as friends and family gather to celebrate their lives.
Providence, Rhode Island – The community is in mourning following the recent passing of three local residents: Joan Bucci, Peter Simone, and John Nickelson. All three have left behind cherished memories for their family and friends, with services planned to honor their lives.
Joan Bucci, age 92, passed away on October 6, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Henry L. Blais, Jr., and a dedicated member of her community, having worked for the Providence School Department for 48 years before retiring. She is survived by her sister Judy Monahan, her late siblings John Bucci, Jr. and Elaine Stinson, as well as several nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Grace Church located at 15 George Waterman Rd., Johnston. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in St. Ann Cemetery.
Peter Simone, aged 84, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 3, 2025. He was the devoted husband of Irene A. (Psilopoulos) Simone and is remembered fondly by his family. His legacy includes a large circle of friends and family who will carry his memory forward. Those wishing to pay their respects can visit for his full obituary and to send condolences to NardolilloFH.com.
John Nickelson, aged 75, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on August 17, 2025. He left behind his wife Janice (Hillman) Nickelson, their daughter Sarah Matthews, and son Michael Nickelson along with his daughter-in-law Eva Nickelson. John was also a proud grandfather to four granddaughters: Molly Mathews, Megan Mathews, Eleanor Nickelson, and Abigail Nickelson. He is survived by his sister Nadine Dahl. Friends and family are encouraged to visit PatrickQuinnFuneralsandCremations.com for further details regarding his services.
Community Impact
The loss of these three individuals has created a palpable void in the local community. Each of them contributed to the fabric of Providence in various significant ways. Joan’s lengthy dedication to education touched countless students’ lives over nearly five decades. Peter’s family-focused life and supportive presence were deeply valued among his friends, while John’s role as a husband, father, and grandfather exemplifies the importance of family ties in the community.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Joan Bucci are set to take place at Our Lady of Grace Church, with burial to follow at St. Ann Cemetery. Friends and family members are expected to come together to celebrate her life and contributions to the education sector.
Peter Simone’s family has arranged private services after his passing. Family gatherings will provide space for loved ones to share memories and condolences. His legacy will live on through the stories and experiences shared by those who knew him best.
John Nickelson’s services will also be held privately with information about memorial services available through his obituary. The support and love of his family during his last moments signifies the close-knit relationships he nurtured throughout his life.
Final Thoughts
The passing of Joan Bucci, Peter Simone, and John Nickelson has reminded the Providence community of the impacts individuals can have on their lives and the importance of family, friendship, and education. As friends and family members gather to pay their respects, their memories will become a part of the community’s enduring legacy.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Obituary of Joan Bucci
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Providence Journal: Obituary of Peter Simone
- Google Search: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Joan Bucci
- Google Scholar: Obituary
- Providence Journal: Obituary of John Nickelson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Providence Journal: Recent Obituaries
- Google News: Local Obituaries Providence
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.
