JOHN R. VERDECCHIA

71, of Johnston, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 30, 2012, at Miriam Hospital, Providence. He was the beloved husband of fifty-three years to Elvira B. (Russillo) Verdecchia. Born in Providence, he was a son of Ida C. (Velletri) Verdecchia of Cranston, and the late Michele Verdecchia.

"Johnny V." was a 1958 graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School. Upon graduation he began a successful career as a highly skilled auto mechanic. He worked for Hurd and Goldberg in the 1960's and later became a Service Manager for Kingston Dodge. While employed there, he was awarded the title of Master Technician by Chrysler Corporation. He later operated his own business, Community Service Station, for eighteen years before retiring in 2000. He was an avid golfer and played in several golf leagues beginning in 1978 and continuing through the summer of 2012.

Besides his wife he is survived by his loving children, John M. Verdecchia, Esq. of Johnston, Alan P. Verdecchia and his wife Laura Jeanne of Coventry, and Amy S. Verdecchia of Johnston. John was the cherished grandfather of Kayla and Brittany Verdecchia, and Jacob John Rankin. He was the brother of Arlene Pilozzi, Steven Verdecchia, Robert Verdecchia, all of Johnston, and the late Michael Verdecchia. John also leaves behind friends and loyal customers too numerous to count. He is irreplaceable.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston, on Thursday at 9:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in Holy Cross Church, 645 Hartford Avenue, Providence. Interment will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS Wednesday 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the East Greenwich Animal Protection League, P.O. Box 184, East Greenwich, RI 02818.