Joseph V. Zito

92, of East Greenwich passed away peacefully on 8/26/2024. 

Born in Cranston, he was the son of the late Angelo and Angela Antonia (DeLuca) Zito and the stepson of the late Carmela Zito. He is predeceased by his brothers John, Ralph, Felix, Frank, Edward, Thomas and sister, Maria.

Joe graduated from Cranston High School in 1949. Soon after he proudly served in the United States Air Force.

Professionally, Joe was best known as one of the Maitre D's at legendary Twin Oaks in Cranston, where he held court at the podium for more than 55 years, until his retirement in 2021. The rich relationships that he built with hundreds of regular customers over those many years will be a lasting legacy.

He also successfully owned and operated Sunshine Pool Service for more than 30 years.

Joe was an avid golfer and a former member of Metacomet Country Club and the Crystal Lake Golf Club. He cherished his time on the links with his friends...and was no stranger to the 19th hole.

But, more than anything else he was the consummate family man, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Family meant everything to Dad. Whether he was coaching his sons in Little League or holding his precious great grandchildren in his arms, he was there as a strong presence in their lives.

Joe was fortunate to have had two long, happy marriages. He was married to the late Gloria (Granata) Zito for forty-two years. Their marriage and love of family was one to be admired and emulated by their children. He is survived by their sons, Joe (Nancy) of East Greenwich, Mike of Darien, CT and Tom (Hope) of Rockaway, NJ. He was the beloved Papa to grandchildren Mark (Sarah), TJ (Danielle), Jenna (Alex), and Lauren and loving Poppy to great grandchildren Simone Michelle and Thomas Joseph.

He was also married to the late Barbara (Gilkenson) Zito. They were married for twenty-four years. He always considered step daughter Gretchen Williams (Dan) and their children Daniel and Thomas as a part of his family.

Calling hours will be held at the Nardolillo Funeral Home and Crematory, 1278 Park Ave. in Cranston on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 9:00am-12:00pm.

The funeral will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations in his name may be made to Operation Stand Down RI 1010 Hartford Ave., Johnston, RI 02919 or osdri.charityproud.org