Mario DiPaolo

Mario DiPaolo, 102, of Johnston, peacefully passed away on November 27, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of the late Lillian (Ricci) DiPaolo for 45 years and cherished father to his children, Deborah Santagata, Richard DiPaolo and Diane DiPaolo.

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Vincenzo and Giovanina (Benincasa) DiPaolo. For over 50 years, Mario proudly owned and operated along with his son, Richard, DiPaolo’s Gulf Service Station in Providence, where he dedicated himself to his work and his community. He loved to dance, and he did so often until the age of 95. He was known for his baking, especially his wine and pepper biscuits and carrot cake. Due to his easy going demeanor and no sweat attitude, his greatest joys came from sitting in the sunlight as well as sharing blackberry brandy shots with his children.

He will be lovingly remembered by his brother, John DiPaolo; his grandchildren, Natarcia Pursche and her husband Stephen, Cranston Detective Robert Santagata, and Gian Souza; as well as his four great-grandchildren, Alex Santagata, Leah Pursche, Noah Pursche, and Isabella Santagata. He was predeceased by his siblings, Silvio DiPaolo and Tomasina Carmone.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate his life at a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 10 AM, in St. Robert Bellarmine Church, located at 1804 Atwood Ave, Johnston. Interment will follow at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston. In keeping with his wishes, visiting hours will take place Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 3-7 PM, in his home at 23 Golini Dr., Johnston.

Mario DiPaolo’s legacy of love and dedication to his family and community will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.