Nicholas P. Palazzo

Nicholas Peter Palazzo, 67, passed away peacefully with his devoted children by his side at the Greenwood Center on July 3rd.
Born in Warwick, Rhode Island, Nick was the son of the late Gennaro Palazzo and Julianna (Bednarnski) Palazzo. Nick is survived by his son Nicholas Palazzo and wife Nikki, daughter Corallea Palazzo and grandson Lucien, brother Steven and niece Tessa, brother Anthony, nephew Anthony Jr. and niece Amber. Nephew Ryan Gribbin, wife Renee and family, nephew Paul Jr., and former wife, life-long friend, and mother of his children Coral St. Gelais. He is predeceased by brother Gennaro, sister Maryanne (Palazzo) Johnson and niece Julie. He is now reunited with his partner in life and love, Karen Pucella.
Nick enjoyed his career as a respected employee of the State of Rhode Island. After holding a number of meaningful positions, he retired from the Human Rights Commission as a Sr. Compliance Officer. As a dedicated member of AFSCME Council 94 Local 1350, he was revered as a labor warrior, serving many roles including but not limited to Chief and Executive Steward, Grievance Committee member and Co-chair. A lifetime member of the Rhode Island Labor History Society (RILHS), Nick served as President and an Executive on the board of directors. Many of his other positions include but were not limited to former Vice President of local 2884 Amalgamated; Delegate, Executive Board Member, and Trustee of the Providence Central Labor Council; Steward and Grievance Chairman for Institute of Mental Health. Post retirement he continued his dedication as the President of AFSCME Retirees Chapter 94. He was a fierce advocate for the Labor and Civil Rights Community and wanted to ensure that he expressed his endless devotion and respect. He received countless awards, accolades, and recognition throughout his career and retirement, all very much deserved.
Out of all the titles that Nick held throughout his life, there was one which he cherished most-Dad. His son Nicholas and his daughter Corallea were his world, and his absolute favorite way to spend his time was with them. Whether it was enjoying breakfast and dinner dates, perusing flea markets and yard sales, fishing, listening to music on long car rides, or just simply spending time with them doing their favorite things, nothing in his life brought him more joy. He played an active role in both of his children's social lives and garnished much respect from so many of their friends, all who could not wait to share a meal, engage in lively political debates, and get valuable advice with the one and only 'Mr. P'. He was well known for his sense of humor and his perfect delivery of endless one-liners and punchlines, which never failed to amuse all.
Affectionately known as 'Ja Ja' by his grandson Lucien, Nick loved watching him play the saxophone, seeing him take pride in excelling as a Boy Scout, and becoming skilled with computers and technology. Simple things like searching for rogue golf balls and going for breakfast at the Phenix Square Diner were some of their favorite ways to spend time together.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Visitation on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 5:00-7:00pm, followed by a Chapel Service at 7:00pm, in the Thomas & Walter Quinn Funeral Home, 2435 Warwick Ave, Warwick. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to the RI Labor History Society.