Ernest P. Baptista, Jr.

ERNEST P. BAPTISTA, JR., 70, of Cranston passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday December 5, 2020. Ernie was the son of the late Ernest & Carmela Baptista formerly of North Providence. He is survived by his loving family including his wife, Sharon (Williams) Baptista, his daughter Jennifer A. Baptista of Warwick, his son Peter A. Baptista and his fiancé Carra Beth Constantine of Cranston, his brother Raymond Baptista and his partner Danielle Amicarelli of North Providence, and many extended family and close friends.

Ernie was a proud graduate of La Salle Academy’s Class of 1968 and remained involved with the school for more than 50 years. A member of the La Salle Hall of Fame and Chair of the Board of Regents, Ernie credited his education there as shaping his entire life. His passion for La Salle Academy knew no bounds.

After earning a BS in Business Administration from Boston University in 1973, Ernie began his career modestly as a life insurance agent and soon after in 1978, he became a partner with Worrell, Passananti & Radoccia. Ernie was a master at his craft using life insurance in his client’s financial plan. He provided high level guidance to his clients with custom designs for their personal and corporate strategies. Ernie cofounded Financial Architects, Inc. and later formed Gencorp Insurance & Financial Services with his good friend and business partner Robert G. Padula. He was a proud Member Firm and Principal of M Financial Group for over 40 years.

Ernie’s effusive spirit, his kindness and his keen intellect were present in every aspect of his life from home to work to his hobbies, like politics. Ernie was humble and quiet in the rooms he frequented, yet when he spoke, his incredible wealth of knowledge and insightful perspectives were soaked up by all who were present.

Ernie was an original thinker, thorough researcher and master strategist in all he did, but using these skills to craft political theories and strategies was his true passion. Ernie never ran for office himself as he was most comfortable in the background, but he sure was sought after for his opinions. He was truly “in the know” on all aspects of the political scene.

A life-long Democrat, Ernie was a supporter of local, state and national candidates and he most enjoyed serving as an advisor, confidante, and sounding board to politicians near and far. Closer to home, Ernie was a high school classmate and friend of U.S. Senator Jack Reed, and he served as the campaign treasurer for U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. Both men were among Ernie’s close friends; he treasured their relationships.

Ernie also created his own so-called political kitchen cabinet through regular lunches and daily phone calls with his dearest friends: Ed McElroy, Joe Walsh, Don Sweitzer, Joe Shekarchi, Joe Paolino, and the late Mark Weiner.

Ernie was also committed to his broader community. In addition to serving La Salle and on the Rhode Island Housing Resources Commission, Ernie made it a priority to help those in need; often and quietly. He always had time for everyone and saying “yes” was his favorite answer.

Ernie loved to travel the world and his passport was full of stamps and just as many stories. He habitually never unpacked his suitcase, just in case the next trip was to pop up. On this trip to his final destination, his family is thrilled he’ll finally be able to unpack that suitcase.

“We are sure he will miss us, but we know he will continue to look out for us all – and he will certainly be up for the new adventure. Let’s hope they have cigars in heaven. We all love you, Ernie,” from your family and friends.

His Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 14th at 10 a.m. in Holy Apostles Church, 800 Pippin Orchard Rd., Cranston (seating capacity will be limited, social distancing and masks required). Burial will be private. The family will plan a celebration of Ernie’s life at a later date when gathering limits allow.

In lieu of cards and flowers, donations to the Baptista Family Endowment Fund at La Salle Academy would be greatly appreciated by the family. Donations can be mailed to: The Baptista Family Endowment, c/o LaSalle Academy, 612 Academy Avenue, Providence, RI 02908. Please indicate, Ernie Baptista in the memo line.