Richard J. Zinno

76, of Johnston, passed away on Monday, January 21, 2019 at Hope Hospice. He was the beloved husband of Elaine (Conti) Zinno for 51 years.   Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Henry and Palma (Aspry) Zinno.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter Jacqueline Mallette and husband Raymond of West Warwick; his son Richard Zinno, Jr. and wife Tara of Cumberland; his beloved grandchildren Alexandra and Olivia Mallette and Matthew and Nicholas Zinno; his sister Joyce Zinno of Providence; and his brother Henry Zinno and wife Maryann of Johnston.  He loved his family very much.

Richard attended Classical High School, where he received the prestigious Scholar-Athlete award; the University of Rhode Island, where he graduated first in the College of Engineering and second in his graduating class; and Harvard University, where he received a Master’s Degree in Applied Mathematics on full scholarship.

Richard worked for five years as a computer analyst at United Aircraft Research Laboratories in East Hartford, Connecticut before joining Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Rhode Island, where he worked for 28 years.  He became Assistant Vice-President of Computer Operations.  When he retired at age 55, there were many testaments to how well-regarded he was by co-workers as an effective, hard-working and caring manager.

Richard’s mantra in life was, “I’m lucky to have Elaine.”  They were a great team, and raised two children of whom they were very proud.  They were a great duo also on the dance floor and enjoyed years of travel together.

He was known for both his intelligence and athleticism.  Many a young math student gratefully received tutoring from Richard.  He was the go-to guy for advice on financial matters and medical insurance.  Countless people were guided by Richard through the maze of applications, bureaucracy, and taxes. He approached projects with careful planning and zeal and was always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends.

Richard was an avid reader and lifelong learner, never leaving home without a book, constantly on a quest for new knowledge.  He worked on math problems daily and was as comfortable reading quantum physics as he was reading historical novels or reciting poetry.

He cherished his four grandchildren, Matt, Alexandra, Nick and Livie and was always ready to pass on his love of learning to them.

He took pride in being able to play football into his early 50’s and basketball and tennis into his late 60’s, along with cycling.  He particularly enjoyed lifelong friendships with his buddies from the Ascham Street Playground in the North End, formerly called “The Dump,” where his passion for sports began.

In his last years Richard faced several serious medical and physical challenges, but he was a fighter and confronted each one with his customary determination.  When one ability was taken away from him, he always found a way to compensate.

He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston on Saturday at 8:45 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Grace Church, Johnston. Burial to follow in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS: Friday from 4 – 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard may be made to Read To Succeed, Inc., 6 Water Valley Road, Hope, RI  02831  www.readtosucceedri.org