Joanna Marie (Monforte) Ruggiero

Bristol- Joanna M. (Monforte) Ruggiero,87, affectionately known as Joanna, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at RI Hospital in Providence. Born on June 24, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, to the late Francesco and Michelina "Margaret" (Ginolfi) Monforte, Joanna's life was characterized by her loving nature, kindness, and generosity that touched the hearts of everyone she encountered.

Joanna was the beloved wife of the late Richard Ruggiero, Sr., and a devoted mother to her children, Cheryl Ruggiero and Richard Ruggiero, Jr. Her joy was multiplied as she became a grandmother to Troy Ruggiero. She was a cherished sister to Dolores Cavallaro and sister-in-law to Anna Veyera. Her warmth and love extended to her nieces and nephews, Linda Ferriera (David), the late John V. Cavallaro, III (Lori), Karen Poulos (Alva) Frank Cavallaro (Beth), Dee Cook (Jim), and her great-nieces and nephews, Crystal Glynn (John), Sabrina Poulos, Alva Poulos Jr. (Rachel), Gianna McDonald (Michael), Vanessa Morra (Nicholas), Sarah Cook, James Cook, including the apple of her eye, great-great-niece Lily Grace McDonald, along with many cousins. Joanna was predeceased by her brother-in-law, John V. Cavallaro, Jr., and Robert Veyera.

Joanna's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love for her family, passion for her interests, and dedication to her community. She split her time between her homes in Seekonk, MA, and West Palm Beach, FL, before finally settling in Bristol, RI, with her daughter in 2014. An avid golfer and mahjong player, Joanna was a long-time member of both the Crestwood Country Club in Rehoboth, MA, and the Bear Lakes Country Club in West Palm Beach, FL. She served on several committees, always eager to contribute and make a difference.

Joanna's commitment to her clubs was only surpassed by her devotion to her family and friends. She was the kind of person who could light up a room with her presence and leave a lasting impression on the hearts of those she met. Her kind and generous spirit was evident in everything she did, from her thoughtful gestures to her willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

As we celebrate Joanna's life, her family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of RI Hospital and Hope Health for the exceptional care and compassion they provided during this challenging time. The support and kindness shown were a great comfort to Joanna and her loved ones.

Joanna M. Ruggiero's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the countless happy memories she created with all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her spirit will continue to live on through her family and the many lives she touched. Joanna will be deeply missed, but her warmth, kindness, and generous heart will be remembered forever.

As we bid farewell to Joanna, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey filled with joy, and a woman who was truly one of a kind. May she rest in peace, knowing that her love will continue to guide and inspire us all.

Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 10:00am in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are SATURDAY MORNING from 8:30am – 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to:  St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. www.rebellofuneralhome.com

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