Norin Sao, 56, of Knollwood Avenue, Cranston, passed away on Saturday, October 25,2025. He was the beloved husband of Suenary Phok.
Born in Cambodia, he was the son of Eng (Chung) Sao of Cranston and the late Thea Sao.
Norin Sao was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend whose warm spirit, sharp mind, and dry sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. He had a remarkable ability to bring joy into everyday moments, even if most of his jokes fell flat, they never failed to make people smile.
Norin had a lifelong love of food and delighted in sharing meals with family and friends. More than anything, Norin loved playing poker. Though he was not the best player, his enthusiasm, laughter, and knack for keeping the game fun made him the life of every poker night.
A true creative at heart, Norin had a unique talent for using Photoshop to make funny, unforgettable photos and videos, often delighting his family and friends, but perhaps mostly himself, with his playful sense of humor. His lighthearted spirit, clever pranks, and infectious laughter made every gathering brighter.
Norin was also ambitious and determined, never knowing when to give up. He approached life with relentless energy, always chasing his dreams and inspiring those around him to do the same. Whether pursuing professional goals or personal passions, he faced every challenge with perseverance and courage.
Professionally, Norin dedicated 25 years to Dell EMC, where he worked as a Manufacturing Technician. Above all, Norin was a devoted husband to Suenary Phok, a loving father to Rebecca and Evan Sao, and a cherished member of his extended family. His kindness, humor, creativity, determination, and stubbornness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories that will never fade. Norin's spirit and humor will continue to inspire and bring joy to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Sao, her husband Cecil Shrestha, his son Evan Sao, and four sisters, Thavy Sao, Phanary Sao, Chamany Sao, and Doranya Sao, and two grandchildren, Pudge Shrestha and Cheeto Puff Sao.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home (659 East Greenwich Avenue,
West Warwick, RI). A Buddhist ceremony will follow at 6:30 p.m. at The Buddhist Center of New England (252 Public Street, Providence, RI).
On Sunday, November 9, 2025, there will be an additional service at The Buddhist Center of New England at 9:30 a.m. Following this, A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home with cremation to follow in the White Dove Crematory. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you please donate an amount of your choice to the
American Diabetes Association at https://diabetes.org/form=Donate.