Barbara Risso Obituary
Barbara Cerra Risso, born on July 8, 1939, in Newport, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband Thomas E. Risso, sister Gloria Albro, and brother Joseph Medeiros.
She will be greatly missed by her son John Liptak and his wife Elizabeth of Portsmouth, her daughter Sandy Liptak Lavoie and her husband Rene of Coventry, her daughter Karen Risso Briggs and her husband Byron of Portsmouth, and son Mark Risso and his wife Diane of Glastonbury, CT; along with her grandchildren Stacey Venancio, Barbara Giroux, Noelle Briggs, Thomas Briggs, Alexander Briggs, Alistair Liptak and Jordan Liptak.
She will also be missed by her great grandchildren Scarlett Meadows, Emma Meadows, Logan Briggs, Owen Briggs, and soon to arrive in June great grandson Briggs.
Barbara leaves behind her siblings Cynthia Konchar, Georgie Anna Medeiros, and John Medeiros along with her dear friend Dianne Hetland and her cousin Peggy Wells.
Barbara will be most remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family. Lovingly known as "Nany" to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, she created a home that was the heart and soul of the family. "Nany's House" served as the gathering place for every holiday and was always filled with love and laughter. Her thoughtful handwritten cards and Facebook messages also highlighted every birthday, holiday, and special occasion.
Barbara's lifelong appreciation for crafts, painting, gardening, and music was woven throughout her home and yard. The Rooster painting proudly displayed in the kitchen, the figurines, paintings, and hand embroidered artwork were a reflection of her creativity and spirit, and part of what made visiting so special. She had the talent and unique vision to transform ordinary objects like twigs or shells into beautiful works of art, and her handmade scarves, blankets and crafts will be cherished for years to come.
Barbara's legacy of love, generosity, creativity, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
To honor her memory, donations may be made to The Potter League in Middletown, RI.
https://potterleague.org/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
375 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840
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