Paul J. Fournier, Sr., 91, of Barrington and formerly of Pawtucket, passed peacefully into eternal life on Thursday, May 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Gloria (Fusco) Fournier and the late Patricia (McKinnon) Fournier. Born in Pawtucket, Paul was the son of the late Ernest P. Fournier and Regina (Soucy) Fournier. He graduated from St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket and went on to earn his Bachelor's degree from Providence College, where he remained a devoted supporter throughout his life.
Paul was a man of deep faith, unwavering optimism, and abundant love. He joined the family business and became the proud owner and operator of E.P. Fournier in Pawtucket and Fournier Ford in East Providence. He later served the State of Rhode Island in the Office of Economic development.
A dedicated community member and proud alumnus, Paul once served as President of the Providence College Alumni Association. But his greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted father, a doting grandfather, and a proud great-grandfather. Paul found beauty in every moment and often reminded those around him that "a baby is a blessing" and "nothing is a problem unless you make it one." He had a gift for finding the good in every situation and never stopped praying for the people he loved.
Paul lived a full and adventurous life. He traveled widely, ran successful businesses, and embraced every day with gratitude and energy. Even in his final days, he remained active—walking daily, exercising, and sharing his light with everyone he met.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria, and his children: Paul J. Fournier Jr. and his wife Susan of Warren, RI; Patricia Moran and her husband Terry of Providence, RI; Mary Collins and her husband Michael of CT; Elizabeth Laliberte and her husband David of Rumford, RI; Ann England and her companion Norm of Rehoboth, MA; Kate Coogan and her husband Greg of Barrington, RI; Sue Mitchell and her husband Moe of Milton, MA; and John Fournier and his wife Michelle of FL. Paul also leaves Gloria’s daughter Susan and her husband Jason Amendolara, and their children Max and Jane.
Paul was a cherished grandfather to Lauren, Alison, Jamie, Terry, Maggie, Michael, Christopher, Maura, Kate, Joseph, Morgan, Madeline, Patricia, David, Robert, Patrick, Ben, Molly, Anna, Danny, Bridget, Mary, Maggie, Tom, Brady, and Nathan. He was the adored great-grandfather of Liam, Terry the third, George, Charlie, Jack, Kerry, Quinn, Christopher, Emilia, Paul, Charlotte, and baby Olive. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Michelle “Shelly” Fournier.
Paul’s legacy is one of love, faith, and positivity. He touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people and the beauty of each God-given day. He was truly a once-in-a-generation gentleman, and we are all profoundly blessed to have had the pleasure of having Paul in our lives.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, May 20th at 11:00 AM in St. Mary of the Bay Church, 645 Main Street, Warren. Burial will follow in St. Mary of the Bay Cemetery, Vernon St., Warren. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the PC Alumni Association, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence RI 02918, in Paul's memory, would be greatly appreciated.
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