Joseph N. Cimini

94, of Cranston, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, November 16, 2024. He was the beloved husband of the late Nancy A. (Bisignano) Cimini. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Alexander and Albina (Ricci) Cimini.

Joseph attended Mount Pleasant High School where he was selected as all state tackle, earning himself a football scholarship to play at Mississippi State University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Education in 1952. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL Draft of 1953. Although he signed with the Steelers in 1955, he suffered a major shoulder injury and was released. He entered the US Army in the 1950s and served in the Korean War, later retired in the Army Reserve as Lieutenant Colonel. He continued his education at Providence College, receiving a Master of Social Work. He then worked as a General Superintendent for many years at M. A. Gammino Construction, Cardi Corporation and retiring from P. J. Keating in 2016.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Cheryl A. Cirillo of Cranston, Joanne M. Salem and her husband Thomas of Schaumburg, IL; cherished grandchildren Christopher Salem, Joseph Salem, Michael Cirillo, Nicholas Cirillo, Amanda Cirillo, and their spouses; dear great grandchildren Michael, David, Milena and Aria. He was the brother of the late William and Edward Cimini. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

His funeral will be held on Thursday at 8:45 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary's Church, Cranston. Burial with Military Honors will follow in R.I. Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter. VISITING HOURS are Wednesday from 4 – 7 p.m.