James F. DeBlasio

James F. DeBlasio, 84 of Coventry, passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday March 26, 2025. Born in Providence he was the son of the late Frank and Eva (Cunha) DeBlasio. He was the beloved husband of the late Paulette (Phillips) DeBlasio, whom he missed dearly.

Jim proudly served his country during the Vietnam Era, in the United States Army. He was the self-proclaimed biggest Red Sox Fan, of all time. His love for the game translated into his passion for coaching girls’ softball for numerous years, for the City of Cranston. He took great pride in his teams and passing on the love for the great American pastime. He also enjoyed dancing and had some impressive dance moves. However, his greatest treasure would be his family. He cherished time spent with his sisters, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was always awaiting the next chance to spend time with any or all of them, and his extended family too. Family birthday celebrations were a favorite, this gave him the chance to pull off his favorite prank, to put butter or frosting on the nose of those celebrating.

He is survived by his children Michelle Grayson and her companion Bill Joaquim, Nicole Coulter, George Grayson, II and his wife Cheri, Steven Grayson and his wife Lori, Kristen DeBlasio and her companion Rui, Mark DeBlasio, and Barry DeBlasio and his wife Lisa. He was the cherished grandfather of Adam, Seth, Sara, Alyssa, Jillian, Matthew, Zackary, Tori, Faith, Dylan, Samantha, and Alyna. He was the great grandfather of Eleanor, Ronan, Aloy, and Jace. He was the brother of Carol McAllister and her late husband Bob, Linda Hassell and her husband Bill, and Sue Gigliodoro and her husband Bob. He was predeceased by a sister, June Menard.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday April 2, 2025, from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at the Nardolillo Funeral Home and Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. Followed by a Funeral Service beginning at 8:00pm. Burial will be held on Friday April 4, 2025, at 11:00 am at Quidnessett Memorial Cemetery, 6365 Post Rd., North Kingstown. Everyone is asked to meet directly inside the gates. In lieu, of flowers donations in his memory can be made to American Diabetes Association New England Chapter, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA, 22116-7023.