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Gerald Schifino Obituary
He was proudly born and raised in Riverside, and grew up knowing the love of a big Italian family that was headed by his parents, Pasquale and Catherine (Consiglio) Schifino. He served in WWII as a member of the US Army 3rd Division's 250th Signal Corps while also working for the Stars and Stripes. In 1947, he began his career at the Riverside Boys Club. He became the director of that club until it closed in 1982 at which point he continued as a director at the East Providence Boys and Girls Club until his retirement in 1997.
His love of baseball became a lifetime passion. He played on the 1951 Providence Amateur League Championship team, the Riverside Merchants. Jed was also a founding member of the RI Senior Softball League and continued to play softball and coach throughout the season. His teammates were his family and all those who played with him or were coached by him over the years can testify to Jed's wonderful spirit, love of the game and more importantly the simple happiness he found playing ball with his friends.
His was a TOWNIE, and there wasn't a bigger supporter of Townie sports. Jed could often be seen in the stands and came to be known by a name to many of the Townie players over the years.
He was so proud of his children and the love and respect they have for him is obvious to anyone who knows them. His pride went further through, for his nieces and nephews have always known a great love from their Uncle Jed.
In addition to his children, he leaves behind a beloved sister, Mary Magdalene (Schifino) LeFranc of Riverside; brothers, Frank A. Schifino of Riverside and William J. Schifino of Tampa, FL; and will be happily joined with his brothers who have left us, Leonard F. Schifino, Pasquale A. 'Pat' Schifino and Anthony G. 'Skip' Schifino. He also leaves behind a son-in-law Robert Gray, Jr.
His funeral will be held on Friday, November 2, 2007, in the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 8:45 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Brendan Church, Turner Avenue, Riverside at 10 a.m. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Calling hours are Thursday 4-8 p.m. Flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions in Jed's memory to the East Providence High School Athletic Fund, 2000 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914, would be deeply appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Schifino
Robert & Tanya Schifino
November 25, 2008
Along with my brother Frank, I too was a bat boy for Uncle Jed and worked at the Boy's Club. Uncle Jed being my Godfather was very special to me. I remember all the times he would take me and my brothers to the Boston Red Sox games. Also as I never learned to swim but he would pick me up at the corner and I would ride the remainder of the Camp Crosby bus route. Then came Sharon, Jimmy and Stacie and sorry cousins but you ruined the good thing we had with Uncle Jed taking us to the games. Seriously, I would rather have you as cousins, because actually at that time the Red Sox were not doing that good. I will always wonder how uncle Jed got me to lay those eggs, but I just wished he showed me how to do it with gold eggs. Also in a short time Tanya became close to Uncle Jed and she would always get a big hug and I know it made her feel more special in our family. She would always want to make food for him and sometimes she gave him cakes, that I was hoping she was baking for me. Thank you Uncle Jed for being part of our lives.
Bob & Tanya
Paul Schifino
November 24, 2008
It is a great idea to revisit Uncle Jed a year after. He's never far in my thoughts, and I am sure it is the same for the rest of you. To say you have never met someone who was so quick to give a smile is an understatement. Who can't think of Uncle Jed and just smile back. What a gift to all that knew him. When I think of him, all I can see is his grin, right after he delivered one of those jokes that he just found hilarious! I am sitting here with my son as he does his homework, tears welling in my eyes, thinking how the world is truly a lesser place without Uncle Jed. And . . . . . hoping that the famous Schifino sense of humor is genetic . . . but improving!
Frank Schifino
November 23, 2008
The fond memories I have of Uncle Jed are too numerous they could fill a book. But my highlights start from 5 yrs old when he would visit me during my 3 month stay in the hospital. He wouldn't just come in the room but throw his baseball cap into my crib from the door. It would light up my day. He made me a part of his life, he asked me to bat boy for his baseball team, asked me to work at the boysclub with him, asked me to be Godfather to his first child. In later years he would invite me to his Softball banquets, baseball games, and other events. He always made me feel like a part of his family. During his last several years I don't think a week went by that I didn't call him at least 4 or more times a week to talk sports or tell a joke. He passed on to me something I will always cherish and that is a very close bond with my kids which I learnt from the close bond he always had with his. It has been a year since his passing and I still cannot think of how much I miss him without a tear in my eye and a lump in my throat. I will aways miss him but never miss the fond memories he has left me with
Love Ya Uncle Jed....
Your nephew...Frankie
Sara Schifino
November 21, 2008
I have a very distinct memory of going to RI as a little girl and meeting Uncle Pat, Uncle Len, and Uncle Jed. I was somewhat starstruck by their smiles, their jokes, their closeness. They reminded me of Dorothy's uncles, from the Wizard of Oz. To the little girl in me, they will always very lovingly be remembered as such: Uncle Len - the Scarecrow, Uncle Pat - the Lion, and Uncle Jed - the Tin Man. I find this to be quite fitting, since Uncle Jed - truly one of the sweetest men ever - really was all heart.
David Schifino
November 19, 2008
We hear children around the playgrounds shout the names of their heroes as they impersonate the athete's feats. "Tom Brady!", shouts one child as he throws a pass on the field. "Paul Pierce!", announces another as he swishes a 3 point shot on the court. Now, in my thirties, I have less time for sports. I'm trying to be there for my family, lend an ear to a child in need, and live life to the fullest. And with each good deed, my inner voice screams the name of my hero. "Uncle Jed!"
Beverly Gray
December 2, 2007
Dear Jim, Sharon and Stacie - This book is another great tribute to Jed. All who knew him, so loved him. I miss him and my heart aches for you three who I would adopt if you'd let me. Jed had a pride in you the depth of which only a parent can recognize. You have love to sustain you for a thousand years. Continue to share it, for you do that so well.
Peace & Love, Mrs. G (I luv you)
Jackie Hope
December 1, 2007
Hello to all
I used to work for Dr. Fuchs and your dad was by far my most favorite patient. Always upbeat and polite. I saw him last, several years ago,at the Providence Waterfront festival. I just now learned of his passing and wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts. His loss will be felt by all whose life he touched in anyway. Be good to each other during this difficult time and continue to make him proud. I know how deeply he care for each of his children.
Karen Sittinger
November 30, 2007
May the wonderful memories remain in your hearts forever.
Sharon Malone-Andreoli
November 7, 2007
Sharon,
My condolences to you and your family. Your Dad was a very special and kind man. He will be greatly missed.
Rob Nelson
November 6, 2007
To the Schifino family, my condolences. I'll never forget going to the Riverside Rec. to see Jed play fast-pitch softball with my uncle, Fred Roe. They sure had a lot of fun! God Bless him!
Sue Pierce
November 6, 2007
To the Schifino family,
Jed was my bus driver to EP High School 30 years ago. He was the best. Always being late he waited for me. I will never forget Jed for making sure I got to school.
I know he is with God. God Bless You Jed and the family that was so lucky to have him in their lives.
Ken Braz & Family
November 3, 2007
To the Schifino Family,
Please accept my sincere condolences. I'm sorry I was unable to attend services. Jed was one great guy. He will never be forgotten. May your memories always bring you comfort.
Sincerely,
Dexter Patterson
November 3, 2007
I am truly sorry for your loss.We wiil all miss him greatly. That smile at the games will be missed but no doubt remembered.Jim, Sharon, And Stacy Stay close.Love Dexter
Scott Schifino
November 2, 2007
Stacie, Sharon, Jimmy
Uncle Jed will be missed very much. Know that he will always be in my heart, as will all of you. Keep Strong.
Passion
To the world, you've been a great man
Always there holding out a helping hand
Your heart was shown each and every day
Giving us peace in a satisfying way
We promise to carry you in our heart
And maintain strength to not fall apart
You've taught us how to be strong
And where our hearts should belong
Uncle Jed, Thank you for believing in me
And for being the passion in the community
I hope to be as strong as you
With all the caring, through and through
Always know what you mean to your family
We all love you, its easy to see
We know you'll be looking over us and be our crutch
Every one of us loves you so much
Uncle Jed, Rest In Peace, don't mind the tears in our eyes
When we need strength, we'll look to the skies
We'll miss you, your smile, and your strength till the end
A Dad, A Brother, An Uncle, A Friend
Scott P Schifino
10/30/07
mike voisin
November 2, 2007
Jim
I am so sorry for your loss our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time
Mary-Catherine Boyorek
November 2, 2007
My prayers are with you during this time. Your father was truly an incredible man and that part of him shows in each one of you every day.
John Little
November 1, 2007
Jim, Sharon & Stacy,
Just a short note to let you know that you are in out thoughts and prayers. It has been an honor and a privilege to have been a part of Jeds softball family. His love for the game was infectious and made playing for, and with him special.
His love for you, and yours for him was evident from the first time we met.
May the joy and love you shared remain strong in your memories and give you strength.
Peace,
Lisa McKinnon
November 1, 2007
Stacie, Sharon & Jim,
Where do I even begin! I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad! You are all like family to me and I have some of the greatest memories of your Dad! He was a great, great man with a big huge heart! From the days at good ol' Camp Crosby, to him attending all the soccer games coached by Jim to fond memories at parades, he will be greatly missed! You have been truly blessed to have such a wonderful man as not only your father but as a friend. He will forever be in my heart! My sincerest sympathy to all of you.
All my love
Dana M. Blake
November 1, 2007
Jim, Sharon, Stacie and the entire Schifino family...My deepest sympathies to you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michelle Lemoi
November 1, 2007
Sharon, Rob, and Family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your Dad. May God help you and your family through this difficult time of sorrow. May you take comfort in knowing that God will continue to look over him and all of you today and every day. Best wishes, Michelle and Leo Lemoi
Jennifer Mota
November 1, 2007
Jim, Sharon, and Stacie,
Uncle Jed is that type of person that touches the lives of everyone he came in contact with, and my life was no exception. He was one of the few people who really believed that I would become the President, and I know that if I ran he would have been the first person in line to vote for me. His faith in me is something that has given me the strength to continue on to achieve my goals even when things get rough, and I will always treasure that for the rest of my life. My prayers are with you, and I know that Uncle Jed will continue to bless more lives from heaven.
All my love
Susan Lemoi
October 31, 2007
Sharon, Rob and Family-
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I'm so glad Cameron and I got to spend time with him at the Pawsox game. So sorry for your loss. May the love of family and friends carry you through your grief.
Love, xo
Susan and Cameron (Scituate, RI)
Jim L'Heureux
October 31, 2007
Jim, Sharon and Stacie,
It has been an honor and a privilege to play softball for your dad. He was a kind, patient and considerate man who obviously loved the game but, above all, loved all of you. Your devotion to him, and by extension, to us, was evident every Sunday as you came and watched every game - giving support and encouragement to him and to the team. It has been my pleasure to be associated with the Schifino family in this way - doing something I also love - playing ball.
May God's face shine upon him and may he receive eternal life.
Rest in Peace Jed.
You will be missed.
Peace,
#22
Maureen Dion
October 31, 2007
Jim, Sharon and Stacie,
Rick and I want you to know that you are in our thoughts during this time. I have just finished reading all the great things that have been written about your Dad. Wow! He always was special to me but I now realize that he was special to everyone. I am just so glad I could call him Uncle Jed. I too have memories of bus rides to Camp Crosby. He never could teach me to swim but I can make a bracelet. And I do know how to sing "Someone's on the bus with Jed". I know he is in a better place and we all can look forward to seeing him again. We will miss him always. All the darkness in the world can not extinguish the light of one candle. Uncle Jed you are that candle. Shine on Uncle Jed shine on.
Love, Maureen and Rick Dion
Kathy Mota
October 31, 2007
Jim, Sharon, and Stacie,
You were all blessed with such a wonderful father and I was blessed with a wonderful uncle. Uncle Jed was always so happy and loved life and knew how to live it to its fullest. Dinarte and I will always remember the wonderful times we shared with him at our parties. Uncle Jed was always the first to RSVP. My children will be forever embraced by the love he showed them. We will forever hold Uncle Jed close to our hearts and keep him in our precious memories.
To my cousins, you are all in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless all of you.
Love,
Kathy, Dinarte, Jennifer, Hillary, Courtney, and Christopher
Michael Borden (Dominion Diagnostics)
October 31, 2007
Sharon,
My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. I had the pleasure of meeting your Dad last year at softball. God Bless !!
Rob, Melissa, Brianna & Joshua Wind
October 31, 2007
Jimmy, Sharon and Stacie,
Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. I have been involved with your family for a short time but I have always felt the "Schifino love". Your dad was great; we share the same birthday. I am glad we saw him at the reunion; I will remember him smiling. I always said Uncle Jed seems so young he could always relate to every age. I am glad my kids knew their Great, Great Uncle Jed; he was a good man with a big heart. God Bless you all - Melissa
Daveanna Hare
October 30, 2007
My deepest sympathies go out to Jed's family and friends. Even though it has been many years since my EP Boys Club & Camp Crosby days Jed has never been forgotten.
For a kid who had nowhere else to go after school or during the summer but the club while her mother worked, Jed was always the highlight of the day. He was a kind, caring soul who touched so many lives in more ways then he will ever know. Knowing Jed while I was growing up made me a better person because he cared enough to make sure I had the support, guidance and friendship I needed at the club and at camp. I'm sure so many lives were touched by this great man. Even now thinking of how he taught me to play bumper pool & pool I am brought to tears because the memories I had with him can never be taken away.
I only hope that knowing what a wonderful, appreciated and respected man Jed was will help you through this time of great sorrow and loss. I feel blessed to have known him for the time that I did and probably owe him more for the person I've become today then I even realize.
April & Keith Rabau
October 30, 2007
Sharon and Family...
I am very sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers...Your Dad will rest in peace.
Love Always
April
Herman Kohlman
October 30, 2007
So sorry to hear about Gerald. I used to play pick-up baseball withhim at the baseball fields in Maplehurst.
Herman Kohlman
Evansville, IN 47711
[email protected]
DONNA SILVA
October 30, 2007
Sharon,Stacie and Jimmy:
Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
Your great memories will keep your Dad with you forever.
Love, Donna and Ron Silva
Geraldine Wind
October 30, 2007
Dear Jim, Sharon and Stacie,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. I know your Dad was so proud of all of you. Uncle Jed was a very special person and I have so many wonderful memories of him when I was growing up and as an adult. He would always kid me about being his "movie buddie" and joke about taking me to scary movies "Psycho". He taught me to swim when I went to Camp Crosby. I would go to watch him play baseball every Saturday when I was growing up.
I know he is at peace now and with his parents and brothers. We will miss him dearly.
Paula Medeiros
October 30, 2007
To the entire Schifino family,
I am truly sorry for your loss.
I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Marcia Goggin
October 30, 2007
Hey, Marsh was the greeting I always received when seeing or talking to my Uncle Jed. He has been such a huge part of my life from the time I was little and he would come have potatoes and eggs for dinner at our house to being a big part of all the holidays at my own house now that I am older. It was so cool to brag to everyone at Camp Crosby that "Jed" was my uncle so that gave me extra power. My children have had such a wonderful opportunity to also have him be there for all the important events in their lives. He and Jim were so wonderful to my family when my dad was unable to drive any longer and would take him to the doctors or whereever, and they never expected anything in return. My mom has depended on your friendship and caring and we know it was always unconditional. To Jim, Sharon and Stacie, you have been more like sisters and a brother to me over the years and I know your dad was so proud of all of you. You did a wonderful job of making his final time peaceful and loving with all of you by his side. No one could ask for more. Uncle Jed, you are in a better place and I'm sure you are already forming a great softball team up there, with Big Al coaching. You will always hold a special place in my heart.
Love you always,
Marcia Goggin
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Jim, Sharon and Stacie at this time.
Love, Dan, Marcis, Liz and Derek Goggin
Emilio Notarantonio
October 30, 2007
Dear Jim, Sharon and Stacie,
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dad. He was a very dear friend to me and I will surely miss him. I will never forget the good times we spent on and off the softball field. His love for the game was exceeded only by love for his children and family. He was a great person.
I am sorry that I cannot be there with you to honor his life of good work but I will have you all in my thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.
Please keep in touch. I would like to see everyone when I return home.
Good bye my Friend
Stacie Schifino
October 30, 2007
THANK YOU on behalf of myself, Jimmy, and Sharon, to all of you who have taken the time to write such kind words about my father. We hope that we can keep his legacy alive by touching as many hearts as he has. Thank you for your friendship to him, it is greatly appreciated. Please keep your memories alive for him. God Bless.
Tracy Corcoran Corcoran
October 30, 2007
Stacie, Sharon, and Jimmy
I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. I have so many wonderful memories of him growing up on Dyer Ave. I don't think I ever heard him raise his voice once, he was the kindest man I've ever known! You will all be in my prayers. I miss and Love you all!!!!
Love Tracy (Carroll) Corcoran
Barbara A. Wilson
October 30, 2007
TO THE SHIFINO FAMILY & FRIENDS. IT IS WITH REGRET TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF JED. HE WAS A WONDERFUL GENTLEMAN. I HAD KNOWN HIM THROUGH A FORMER ACQUAINTENCE WHO LIVED UP THE STREET FROM THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB AND LATER WHEN I WORKED DRIVING SCHOOL BUS. HE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHOSE LIVES HE TOUCHED. PLEASE REVEL IN THE MEMORIES THAT HE LEFT BEHIND. HE WOULDN'T WANT ANY SADNESS ONLY SMILES. I HAVE A SCHIFINO TO THANK FOR SAVING ME. "DANNY" (CLASS OF '60) IF NOT FOR HIM, I WOULD HAVE DROWNED. SO, THANK YOU SCHIFINOS FOR TOUCHING MY LIFE.
Joan Gregory
October 30, 2007
Jimmy,Sharon and Stacie so sorry to hear about Jed, he was a fine man,and he came from a wonderful family. I always remember that he and my husband Don, joined WWII together. I hope Don was there to greet him in Heaven. Love Joan
Kenzie Pereira
October 30, 2007
Sharon & Rob, Stacie, and family ~
Our deepest sympathy for the tremendous loss you are feeling...although, his earthly being may not be in sight - his spirit will live on in peace, health, and happiness with you always.
~Kenzie & Rich
pam santorelli
October 30, 2007
Stacie and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you,
Pam Santorelli
Erin Dollard
October 30, 2007
To our dear friends,
You will remain in our hearts and prayers as you celebrate the beautiful life of your father. You are fine examples of what a terrific, caring person your dad was and the good works he did in his life.
Much love,
Erin & John Dollard
Suzanne Casamento
October 30, 2007
Stacie, Sharon and Jimmy,
Big Schifino hugs to all of you! We're all thinking of you and sending lots of love.
Love,
Kelli Pacheco
October 30, 2007
Stacie, Sharon & Jim,
There aren't enough words to relay how sorry I am for you all. Your Dad was one of the nicest men I ever met. From the time Stacie and I were in Jr. High he was always a permanent fixture at every sporting event we were involved in. Next year the softball season won't be the same without him at Agawam. I would see him there weekly and would get the chance to catch up and talk with him I will greatly miss our little chats together. Please let the wonderful memories you have help you through this difficult time and know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Stacie, I love you and hope you know all of your friends are here for you.
Rick and Cheryl Cordeiro
October 30, 2007
Jimmy, Stacie and Sharon, We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. We all met many years ago at Star Wheels and now Jimmy is a sub at the high school for our son. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Rick and Cheryl Cordeiro
Richard Silva
October 30, 2007
Jimmy, Stacie, and Sharon:
Your dad was a great guy. I can remember the days when he ran the Riverside branch of the Boys and Girls Club. He always looked out for the kids and devoted his life to working with them. Later on in life, I was privileged to work with him at the club and at Camp Crosby. I enjoyed spending time, talking with him and listening to his stories. I can remember as thousands of other kids, I'm sure can, riding on the school bus with Jed as the driver. He gave my daughter her first bus ride when she was 4. She had such a great time, she talked about it for weeks. Jed was so touched, he gave her a yellow school bus which she proudly displayed in her room.
Jed.. you were one of those guys who went through life never getting the recognition you truly deserve. You dedicated yourself to the kids of Riverside -- Thank you!!
your friend,
Rich
Nichole Rivera bus #22
October 30, 2007
to his family jed was a very kind man who faught till the end he will be missed by all who knew him. all the cold mornings he would fuel my bus without complaints of the weather i will always remember him for his courage and strength may he rest in peace. we will meet again.
Shatz & Nell Cole
October 30, 2007
To the Schifino family,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies for your tremendous loss. Our love, thoughts, and well wishes are with you during this difficult time.
Betty Schifino-Cotoia
October 30, 2007
Uncle Jed will always have a special place in my heart.
Kelly Roy-Sale
October 30, 2007
Jim, Sharon and Stacey,
Your father was a great man!!! I am so glad that I had the opportunity to get to know him and all of you. I will miss him very much. I hope you all find the strength to get through this difficult time. I love you guys! I am extremely sorry for your loss.
Allison MacDonald
October 30, 2007
Stacie, Sharon, & Jimmy,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad!! He was truly a wonderful, loving man that will be deeply missed. Love to you all!
Alli
Keith Burkett
October 30, 2007
Jed was the kindest, most patient and friendliest gentleman I have ever had the honor to know and work with in my entire life. God bless him and his family!
Terri Landry
October 30, 2007
Jimmy, Stacie, Sharon & Rob, Words cannot express my sadness in the loss of your wonderful father. I am so blessed to have known him for so long. He was always quick with the big smile and hug that greeted me every time I saw him. His love for all of you was ever present on his face as he looked at you. He gave to so many children in East Providence and helped mold young minds and hearts, he will be truly missed by all who loved him. Please know that my thoughts, prayers and most of all love is with you all and the entire Schifino family. May God bless you and keep you all in His loving arms at this difficult time. I love you all and am here if you need anything.
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