Francis "Frank" A. Chiello Jr.

74, of Johnston passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 with his beloved wife of 26 years Marion (Gallagher) by his side.

Frank was born on September 23, 1948 in Providence, to the late Frank Chiello, Sr. and Eleanor “Mama” (Camassa) Chiello. Frank graduated from Central High School in 1968 where he played football. He played as a defensive back and received the nickname “Forearm Frank”.

Early in life he worked with his father at The Foundry and with his brother Jimmy at Coca-Cola. He then delivered meat for Lincoln Packing for many years. An entrepreneur at heart, Frank owned and operated many businesses throughout his life. He ran Mama Chiello’s Restaurant with his brothers from 1978-1993. His other businesses included restaurants; Nobody’s Bar and Grill in Murfreesboro, TN, Anthony’s Restaurant in Johnston, RI and Viola’s Restaurant in Providence, RI.  Frank also ran various nightclubs including; Frank’s Shorts & Sports in Warwick, RI, Anthony’s Showplace in Warwick, RI and Nashville, TN and Mario’s Showplace in Johnston, RI and Webster, MA, which is still open today.

While strong willed and stubborn at times, Frank had an enormous heart and was full of generosity. His quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and contagious laugh brought smiles to everyone around him. Frank always carried himself with dignity, strength, and courage. He was deeply loyal to those he held close. He will be remembered by all who knew him and missed dearly.

Frank was predeceased by his brothers Vincent “Jimmy” Chiello and Eugene “Gene” Chiello. Frank is survived by his wife Marion, his children Francis “Franky” Chiello, III, Michael Chiello (Leah), Samantha Godin (Daniel), and Marina Chiello. He also leaves behind a granddaughter Eleanor “Ella” Godin and was looking forward to meeting his soon to be granddaughter in July.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday May 27, 2023, at 10 am in St. Robert Bellarmine Church Johnston. Burial will be private.

Visiting hours are Friday, May 26, 2023 from 4 pm -7 pm in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave. Cranston.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or St. Robert Bellarmine Food Pantry 1804 Atwood Ave. Johnston, RI 02919.