Barbara Ann "Barbie" Cifelli

Barbara Ann (Mangano) Cifelli, RN, affectionately known as "Barbie," 79, of Tiverton, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on February 20th at Charlton Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Providence, Barbara was the daughter of the late Edith (Wood) and William P. Sitko. She was the devoted wife of Domenic A. Cifelli for more than 50 years, sharing a lifetime of love, partnership, and family.

She was predeceased by her brother, Richard A. Mangano, and his wife Judith; her sisters, Janice (Mangano) Del Vecchio and her husband John, and Donna Lee Mangano; her brother-in-law, James Righie Sr.; and her in-laws, Anthony and Maria Cifelli.

A 1966 graduate of Hope High School, Barbara followed in the footsteps of her late sister Donna and pursued a career in nursing, graduating from Rhode Island Junior College in 1973. She dedicated more than 35 years to caring for patients at Rhode Island Hospital and later at Saint Anne's Hospital, where her kindness, compassion, and professionalism left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Beyond her career, Barbara lived life with curiosity, warmth, and enthusiasm. She cherished the companionship of her beloved pets, Ernie, Corey, and Gracie, who brought her great joy. She had a deep love for the arts and volunteered for many years as an usher at the Providence Performing Arts Center. An avid reader, she could always be found with a book in her hand and an energetic competitor, she enjoyed racquetball and tennis. Her greatest joy came from traveling and experiencing new cultures and cuisine, especially when shared with family. From Italy, Spain and France to the Soviet Union, England, the Canary Islands, and the Caribbean, Barbara embraced the world with wonder. After retiring, she and Dom treasured their winters together in Zephyrhills, Florida, sharing many joyful seasons filled with friendship and laughter.

Barbara is survived by her beloved eldest sister, Edith (Mangano) Righie, with whom she shared countless cherished memories. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews, whom she lovingly referred to as her "kids" and who were the light of her life. To them, Barbara was a trusted confidante, a patient listener, and a comforting hug whenever you had the urge. She took immense pride in each of them and treasured every moment together. They include Judith Javery, Lee Mangano, the late Richard Mangano Jr., James Righie Jr., Susan (Righie) Read, Kerri (Del Vecchio) Bedard, Donna Del Vecchio, and Becky (Mangano) Trosin. She also leaves behind many great and great-great nieces and nephews, all of whom brought her endless joy.

Barbara will be remembered for her generous heart, adventurous spirit, and the deep love she had for her family, who will carry her memory with them always.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home, 659 East Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick, RI, followed by a Funeral Service at 12:30 p.m. Burial will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Vintage Pet Rescue, in honor of Barbara's lifelong love and compassion for animals. https://www.vintagepetrescue.org/donate