David C. DePetrillo

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother David C. DePetrillo. A beloved husband, brother, uncle, and esteemed leader in Rhode Island's tourism and hospitality industries, David passed away on February 26th at the age of 78.

The devoted son of the late Frank and Fatima (Ciuccio) DePetrillo, David is survived by his devoted wife, Jean, and his seven siblings: Frank S. DePetrillo, Thomas L. DePetrillo(Carol Keefe), Lawrence R. DePetrillo(Nancy), Carol A. (DePetrillo) Goulet (Stephen), Linda L. DePetrillo (Mowry) and Judith A. Stracaluzi (Donald), and Paul R. DePetrillo (LuAnne). 

He is predeceased by his brothers, Nicholas A. DePetrillo (Capt' Nick, Block Island) and Anthony J. DePetrillo and sister Eleanor A. Chadronet. 

A treasured uncle of many adoring nieces and nephews, David was loved by a host of loyal friends. His caring nature, integrity, good humor, and infectious enthusiasm for life touched all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A 1968 graduate of Rhode Island College, David went on to earn a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of Connecticut. He was proud alum who was honored to serve on the RIC Foundation Board, etc. 

David was the State of Rhode Island Tourism Director from 1983 to 2008 serving under five consecutive Governors. He is lauded with helping propel tourism to become one of Rhode Island's largest employers and revenue generators. He spearheaded many creative marketing efforts promoting Rhode Island, locally, domestically and abroad. He is perhaps remembered most fondly for the "Biggest Little State in the Union" campaign. 

For David, promoting Rhode Island was not a job, but rather his lifelong passion and vocation. He dedicated his career to shaping and elevating the state's tourism and hospitality industries, achieving notable success and recognition along the way. He earned a national reputation for marketing and tourism and was widely recognized as the long-serving Dean of State Tourism Directors, an honor that highlighted his talent, extensive experience, and leadership in the field. He also proudly chaired the Rhode Island Hospitality Education Foundation, where his commitment to education and workforce development helped shape the future of the local tourism industry. 

In addition to these roles, David was an enthusiastic member and former President of the Providence Art Club, and most recently,he Chaired the Entertainment Committee. David was devoted to supporting and showcasing the important work of artists. David also served as Flag Secretary for the Rhode Island Commodores, a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan group of civic and community leaders founded to promote Rhode Island as the best place to work, live and vacation. He brought leadership, professionalism, and passion to each of these positions. 

David's hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. He was the recipient of numerous honors throughout his career, including the prestigious State Tourism Director of the Year Award, the Governor's Tourism Award, and his induction into the Providence Visitors and Convention Bureau Hall of Fame. He also was recognized by Yankee Magazine as its New England Tourism Person of the Year. 

A lifelong advocate for Rhode Island, David pioneered the use of new echnologies to grow tourism helping to create one the first state tourism websites in the nation,David was a founding member of the Rhode Island Geotourism Collaborative. He was an influential board member and former chairman of the National Council of State Tourism Directors and served on the board of the Travel Industry Association of America. 

Among the many affiliations, we must include Discover New England, the RI Historic Preservation Society, and the Rhode Island Heritage Commission, the Providence Preservation Society, Eastern States Exposition and the Providence Performing Arts Center. And of course, Tall Ships etc. 

In addition to his storied career, David was a keeper of treasures. He had a profound love of history and was an enthusiastic collector of antiques, art and relics. He had an eye for preserving culture and heritage - the things which sustain us. This certainly was reflected over the years as he and Jean, lovingly and painstakingly, restored five historic homes to their former glory. One by one, they shared them as a gathering place with family and friends, transforming each into beloved homesteads. 

David's contributions to Rhode Island and its tourism industry are immeasurable, but it was his passion for the state and its people that truly define his legacy. He leaves behind a lasting impact and a deep love for the community he served. Of his role, David simply stated ---"getting to promote Rhode Island was a joy to me. 

A truly kind and good person, David C. DePetrillo will be remembered as an accomplished public servant, who cherished his dear wife Jean and his family above all. His congeniality, quick wit, and generosity of spirit made him an endearing soul to all who had the good fortune to know him.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 9:00am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in Holy Apostles Church, 800 Pippin Orchard Rd., Cranston. Burial will follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS will be held on Sunday , March 2, 2025 from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: The Tomorrow Fund, RI Hospital Campus, 110 Lockwood Street, Physicians Office Building, Ste. 422, Providence, RI 02903.