JOHN NIGRIS

81, of Johnston and Narragansett passed away on Friday November 19, 2010 at the Philip Hulitar In-Patient Center Providence surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Phyllis A. (Calcagni) Nigris.

They were married for 54 years.

Born in Providence, John was the son of the late Rocco and Vincenza (Guariglia) Nigris. John was the former owner and operator of well-known Necal's Deli in Johnston for almost 40 years. Friendly and always smiling, his cherished neighborhood deli was the local meeting place for coffee, sandwiches, the lottery and lively conversation. He had many varied interests including travel and reading. He loved food adventures and often traveled to foreign countries including his beloved Italy.

He was a veteran of the Korean War where he served honorably as a combat medic. John was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

As a young man, John often worked for his brother Dante "Doc" Negris at Doc's PX on Charles Street. He later worked as a meat cutter/produce manager for the First National Food Chain prior to opening Necal's in 1958.

John was a member of the Knights of Columbus Bouffard Council in North Providence and the Johnston Senior Center.

Besides his wife John is survived by his two sisters, Rose Bouthillette of North Providence, Aurora DeLuca of Owing Mills, MD and his two brothers, Dante "Doc" Negris of North Providence, and Major General (Ret.) Rocco Negris of Shamong, NJ. He was the brother of the late Florence Vessella, Theresa Santoro and Angelo Negris. John is also survived by many caring nieces, nephews and god children who lovingly called him "Uncle John", and his devoted puppy "Patches".

His funeral will be held on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY 1278 Park Ave. Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Rocco's Church Johnston at 11:00 a.m. Entombment with Military Honors will be in Mother of Hope Mausoleum. St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.

VISITING HOURS MONDAY 4-7 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory can be made to: The John "Necal" Nigris Scholarship Fund for Saint Rocco Catholic School 927 Atwood Ave Johnston 02919.