Irene Marie Ruggieri, 91, daughter of John and Mary (DiOrio) Paolino, died peacefully on February 3, 2026. A lifelong resident of Waseca Ave, Barrington, Irene married John Ruggieri, Jr. in 1955 and enjoyed a loving marriage for 47 years until his death in 2002.

Irene’s world was her family. She was a busy homemaker and fabulous cook, raising 4 sons and enjoying life with a large extended Italian family. Irene was a kind and loving Nana to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her sister Marie Raso (Thomas) of Warren and her four sons, John Ruggieri III (Peggy) of Barrington, Dr. Paul Ruggieri (Erin) of Bristol, Steven Ruggieri of Naples, Florida and Bishop James Ruggieri of Portland, Maine. She also leaves five grandchildren, John Ruggieri IV (Bridget), Kyle Ruggieri (Kendell), Julie Boynton (Sam), Dr. Danielle Ruggieri, Cody Heusmann and seven great-children; Jack, Emily, Thomas, Julian Ruggieri and Avery, Theo, Ella Boynton.

Calling hours will be from 8:30am to 9:30am on Monday, February 9th at Holy Angels Church, Maple Avenue, Barrington followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am. Burial will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Catholic Foundation of RI, One Cathedral Square, Providence RI 02903. In the memo line write John Ruggieri, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund. This fund provides tuition assistance to the most deserving students at St. Patrick Academy in Providence, RI.