William A. "Bill" Manchester (PFD, Ret.)

WILLIAM A. “BILL” MANCHESTER, ( Deputy Assistant Chief, PFD, Ret.) of Warwick, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, March 26, 2022.

Bill was the beloved husband of Gloria Jean (Antonucci) Manchester. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late John R. and Phyllis Ann (Yetman) Manchester.

He became a member of the Providence Fire Department in 1965, and enjoyed a distinguished career, achieving the rank of Deputy Assistant Chief before retiring in 1991 due to illness. He received commendations for meritorious service on several occasions.

Bill was a member of the Providence Firefighters Union, Local 799, and a member of the Providence Permanent Relief Association, an organization that he served as secretary for sixteen years. He was an associate member of the East Greenwich Veterans Firemen’s Association, a member of the Block Island Tunaless Fishing Club, and a classic car enthusiast.

Besides his wife, Bill is survived by his loving children: Ann Phillips, Eileen Sammartino and her husband David, John Manchester, all of Warwick; Matthew Bennett and his wife Alicia of Alexandria, VA; and William A. Manchester, Jr., of Exeter.  Bill was the cherished grandfather of Shaun Phillips, Jack Manchester, Amelia Bennett, Ava, Liza and Emma Sammartino, and favorite uncle of Jordan Zanni.

VISITING HOURS are Saturday, April 2nd from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, followed by a Celebration of Bill’s Life in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston.  Inurnment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: VNA of Care NE, 55 Health Lane, Warwick, RI 02886.