News Summary
Cranston resident Rosemary F. (Butti) Ellinwood has passed away at the age of 84. She was a devoted wife, mother, and community servant, noted for her 32-year tenure at the City of Cranston Clerk’s Office. Her legacy as a loving matriarch and community contributor will be fondly remembered by family and friends. Funeral arrangements are in place to honor her life and service.
Cranston, RI – Rosemary F. (Butti) Ellinwood Passes Away at 84
Rosemary F. (Butti) Ellinwood, a long-time resident of Cranston, Rhode Island, passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Cedar Crest Nursing Center. She was 84 years old and is remembered for her dedication to family and community service.
Rosemary was the cherished wife of Robert F. Ellinwood for 63 years, demonstrating a lifetime of love and partnership. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Paliotta) Butti, growing up in a family that valued close relationships.
Throughout her career, Rosemary made significant contributions to her community, serving as the Principal Clerk for the City of Cranston Clerk’s Office for 32 years before her well-deserved retirement.
She is survived by her devoted children, Dawn M. Ellinwood and her husband Peter C. Ferguson of Williston, Vermont, and Robert F. Ellinwood, Jr. and his wife Laurie of Johnston. Additionally, she was a beloved Nana to Grace R. Ferguson from Williston, Vermont, further solidifying her role as a matriarch in the family.
Family and Friends Remember Rosemary
Rosemary is mourned by her brother, Robert Buttie, and his wife Janet, both of Cranston. She is also preceded in death by her brother Raymond Butti and his wife Ellen, who were former residents of Cranston. Known for her warm and inviting spirit, Rosemary leaves behind a considerable extended family, along with many friends, including cherished nieces and nephews, all of whom will deeply feel her absence.
Funeral Arrangements
In honor of her life and service, Rosemary’s funeral is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 27th. A procession will begin at 9 a.m. from Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at St. Mary Church at 10 a.m., located at 1525 Cranston St., Cranston. Burial will subsequently occur at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston.
Visiting hours for family and friends to pay their respects are set for Friday, September 26th, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Those wishing to extend their condolences may do so online, ensuring that Rosemary’s memory is honored and celebrated by all who knew her.
Legacy of Service and Family
Rosemary F. (Butti) Ellinwood’s life was marked by a commitment to family, service, and her community. Her passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those she touched with her kindness and dedication. As arrangements are made to say goodbye, her legacy will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
For the community of Cranston and beyond, Rosemary’s contributions as both a public servant and a loving family member stand as a testament to a life well-lived. Her influence will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of her loved ones and within the community she served so faithfully.
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Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF 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.