Anthony Rappa Obituary
89, of Cranston, passed away on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Giacchino and Carmella (Maglio) Rappa. He was the beloved husband of the late Shirley Louise (Frye) Rappa.
Anthony "Tony" proudly served in the Rhode Island Air National Guard for forty-one years, retiring at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He also worked as the Operations Manager at TF Green Airport in Warwick. He was a member of the Rhode Island Pilot's Association, the Quiet Birdmen, the A.O.P.A., and the Elks (B.P.O.E.). He was also a member of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Warwick.
In addition to his unending love and devotion to family and friends, his lifelong loves were flying and music. As a private pilot his whole life, he enjoyed flying airplanes and helicopters with friends and family, and was involved in local pilot associations. Later in life, he became passionate about singing and performing, and shared his talents at many local venues.
He is survived by his cherished children, Jack A. Rappa (Gloria) of Reno, NV, Sandra J. DiMascolo (Michael) of Cranston, Robert E. Rappa (Ashley) of Warwick, Paul E. Rappa (Susan) of Lexington, KY, his brother, Raymond R. Rappa (Olga) of Los Angeles, CA, eleven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He was the father of the late Anthony J. Rappa, Jr. and Mary L. Andreason and brother of the late John Rappa and Pauline F. Gill.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 9:30AM on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 3250 Post Rd, Warwick. Due to COVID-19, Health and Safety Regulations will be in effect. Seating will be limited. Private Interment with Military Honors will take place at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Ave, Warwick.
www.murphyfuneralhomes.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joanann Labrie
January 29, 2024
We will never forget our dear friend Tony. Miss you so much
Love Joanann & Richard
Joe Holtzman
February 28, 2021
I just heard the sad news of Anthony. I got to meet Tony at the Elks in Warwick. Each Sunday was kareoke night. What a terrific singer. Everybody just enjoyed his voice and him being a nice man.
Ann Parente
February 22, 2021
I am so sorry that l just received the news of Tony's passing. He was a dear family friend who you could count on for comfort, support and advice. My condolences to the Rappa family who will always be dear to me. Tony can never be replaced but the fond memories of him and my father are close to my heart. Tony was one of a kind and very special. Much love to the Rappa family.
Daniel Sullivan
February 20, 2021
I met Tony shortly after my own father passed. Tony filled a great void in my life. He is a gentleman, a friend, a surrogate Dad, a singing mentor, a great singer himself and one of the best dancers I will ever know. I love you, Sir with all the love there is. You made a tremendous difference in my life. I love you forever. Peace and love to you and your family. I miss you but, I know I will sing with you again. Thank you for loving me like a son!! Dan
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Don Rittmann
February 5, 2021
Anthony was already in his eighties when my wife and I first heard him sing, and until now we didn't know about his long-time avocation as a pilot. But we knew immediately that he was an extraordinary singer. At eighty-eight he could still deliver an artistically challenging song in a manner that would have done honor to Tony Bennett in his prime. Yet he was always generous in praising our passable singing efforts. We missed his singing during this COVID crisis and were hoping to see and hear him again when karaoke came back. That won't happen now, but we will always remember his voice and his congeniality. Our deep condolences to his family.
John Rappa
February 5, 2021
Tony was a great guy ,one who knew the entire family. When help or information was needed you could count on tony. We are going to miss you. May you rest in peace and lend your voice to the angels.
Richard & Joanann Labrie
February 4, 2021
Tony
Was a wonderful guy that loved life. He loved his family. We were blessed to have had him in our lives. Prayers to his family. God bless Tony
Love,
Richard & Joanann Labrie.
Beverly swanson
February 4, 2021
Tony, our friend and Elk Brother. You were very special to Don and I. We loved your company, your singing, our Friday nights at the Elks, your great advice....you would just light up any room that you were in. I am happy to say that we were friends of yours. Our deepest condolences to the entire Rappa Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. RIP Tony....sing and dance with the Angels. Love Bev & Don
Rick Wilkins and Donna-Jean Rainville
February 4, 2021
We'll always remember Tony for his joyful embrace of life. We so admired his deep love of family, how he so enjoyed music and dancing. He lived life to the fullest. Let us all follow that example. Our deepest condolences to the entire Rappa family.
Renee
February 4, 2021
Tony..what can I say!? You were a light..the kindest soul and quite the ladies man! We welcomed you with open arms at “the Beav” you were one of us..you always put on a show and truly lit up the night..you will be sorely missed..condolences to your family
Paul Wyrostek
February 4, 2021
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Rappa family. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Tony through the flying community along with Shirley and Sandra at Joey’s coffee shop. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rick and Diane Holcomb
February 3, 2021
Tony was a wonderful man, we only meant him 3and a half years ago, we also had a passion for singing, I enjoyed his company he had a one of a kind personality, everyone who knew him, loved him, God Bless our wonderful friend, RIP
LUCILLE M BELAND
February 3, 2021
My condolences to the family. I had the pleasure of meeting Tony at various dance venues. He was a gentleman, a great dancer and a beautiful singer. He will remain in my prayers.
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800-812 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick, RI 02886
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