Mr. Robert John Tierney Sr.

Robert "Bob" J. Tierney Sr., Ret. Cpt. CFFD, of Vero Beach, Florida, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Christine P. (Laneres) Tierney. The couple would have celebrated their fifty-fourth wedding anniversary on October 16, 2025.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Matthew and Lillian (Herrity) Tierney. Bob had resided in Rumford, Rhode Island before moving to New Hampshire and Florida.
A proud United States Army Vietnam Veteran and Airborne Ranger, Bob served his country with distinction, earning three Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star Medal, and the prestigious Silver Star Medal which he was awarded in 2024. His dedication to service continued throughout his 30-year career as a firefighter with the Central Falls Fire Department in Central Falls, RI. Bob became a firefighter on July 1, 1970; he was promoted to Lieutenant on April 27, 1984, and Captain on December 12, 1986, before retiring in August 2000.
Bob was not only a hero in his professional life but also in his personal life. He was a devoted Boy Scout Master for Troop 7 and Troop 13 in Central Falls, RI, and shared his knowledge as a Fire Science instructor at the Community College of Rhode Island. His passion for teaching extended to the Police Academy, where he instructed CPR and Basic Life Support.
In 2002, Bob and his wife Christine began a new chapter in Tamworth, New Hampshire, before becoming "snowbirds" in 2012, enjoying the warmth of Vero Beach, Florida, during the colder months. Bob had a zest for life, evident in his love for riding his Harley Davidson, gardening, cooking, hiking, camping, and spending cherished moments with his grandchildren. Known for his humor, he brought laughter and joy to all who knew him.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Christine P. Tierney; a son, Robert J. Tierney Jr. and his wife, Carrie-Ann, of Pawtucket, RI; a daughter, Lisa A. Dumais of Rochester, NH; and his adored grandchildren, Nathan Dumais of Rochester, NH, Robert J. Tierney III and his wife, Olivia, of Pawtucket, RI, Elizabeth Tierney of Pawtucket, RI, and Briana Dumais of Rochester, NH. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.
His funeral with Military Honors will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 10 a.m. from WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. VISITATION will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 (www.hopehealthco.org) would be appreciated. For online condolences or to share memories, please visit www.trippfuneralhome.com.
Bob will be remembered for his courage, kindness, and the indelible mark he left on the lives of those who knew him. His legacy of service, love, and laughter will live on in our hearts forever.