Elizabeth A. “Liz” Ricci
Date of Passing:
Elizabeth A. “Liz” (McGarahan) Ricci, 72, of Pleasant Street, Rumford, died peacefully on July 28, 2024 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Philip A. Ricci Jr.
A lifelong resident of East Providence, she was the daughter of the late Thomas B. and Costance M. (Hall) McGarahan.
Mrs. Ricci was a Registered Nurse from 1972-2023 at Roger Williams General Hospital, Our Lady of Fatima Hospital, Maxim Healthcare, The Office of Dr. Paul T. Zaydon and Agape Dermatology, Fall River.
Liz was a graduate of East Providence High School Class of 1969 and Roger Williams General Hospital School of Nursing Class of 1972 where she was an active member of the Alumni Association.
Mrs. Ricci was a daily communicant of Our Lady of Loreto Church where she was a member of the Parish’s Prayer Group and Spring Bazaar Committee. She was also a member of the National Right to Life Committee.
Liz was a devoted caregiver to family and friends in need and was faithfully instrumental in keeping close ties within her family.
Besides her husband of 50 years, she is survived by a son, Thomas P. Ricci and wife Kate of Swansea, MA; a grandson, Lucas Thomas Ricci and many beloved cousins.
Her funeral will be held on Monday August 5, 2024 from the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 8:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 346 Waterman Avenue at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
Calling hours are Sunday from 3-6 p.m. Flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions to the Rhode Island Right to Life, 266 Smith Street, Providence, RI, 02908 or Our Lady of Loreto Church Memorial Fund, 346 Waterman Avenue, East Providence, RI, 02914 would be deeply appreciated.
I remember meeting Liz many years ago with my mother. Mine and my family’s prayers are with the Ricci family.
To Phil and family-I am deeply sorry for your loss. I met Liz St Charlies and became friend for so many years. Liz is a wonderful friend and her family I never met. I will miss her now she is haven rest and peace God be with her. Love-Kia & Cheng
Hi Phil and Tommy
My daughter Betsy told me today about Liz passing into eternal rest from her school nurse.
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Mary and I thought the world of you both. I fondly remember Liz hosting a baby shower for Mary and the wonderful times we had after many basketball games. I fully understand the emptiness you are feeling at this sad time. I know you will find peace in your wonderful memories of a great wife and mother.
Dick Rouleau
To Phil and family, I had the pleasure of cheerleading with Liz ,as she was the Captain of us cheerleaders..She had to be captain ,because she was the most high spirited and peppiest amongst us…not only that, but she was kind hearted and caring..I am grateful for that time we shared together.very fond memories for me..and I am so very sorry for your loss Phil and family, but I know she is now in Our Lord’s care.. ..May Liz rest in peace..xo
Debbie and I offer our deepest sympathy and condolences on the loss of your wife Liz. We will keep, Liz, you, and your family in our prayers.
Our sincerest condolences on the passing of Liz. She was truly the epitome on goodness and kindness. I will always remember how she sat with me when my father was a patient of Dr. Zaydon. Always compassionate. How well I remember her taking pictures of Jerry & I at the church breakfasts and laughing together. She was one of the best! May she rest in peace with our Lord..
Dear Phil, Tom & family, Paul and I are so sorry for the loss of your sweet Liz, & Mom. I remember the first time I met her. It was my first day working with you in the athletic office at EPHS. She was so sweet and kind to me. She became my friend. Everytime I lost a loved one you both were at my house leaving a dish. When Pauly went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus you both were there for us. Paul and I are here for all of you in thought and prayer. Liz is no longer in pain. She heard the words we all want to hear because of her belief in Jesus as Savior and that is Well Done Thy Good And Faithful Servant enter into the joy of the Lord Matt. 25:23
Phil and family, so sorry for your loss.
Phil, Maureen and I send our deepest condolences for your loss. Liz was such a lovely person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Phil, we were at your home on Ferris Ave when Mookie Wilson’s groundball went through Bill Buckner’s legs. Liz’s spirit helped carry us through that tragedy, and it continues.
Thoughts with you & family,
Chuck & Betsy Ricci
Phil, Tommy and Kate,
Our hearts are broken yet we are so thankful and blessed to have had Liz in our lives. Anyone who knew her… was blessed. Phil, we send our heartfelt condolences as we remember happier, and cherished, times with you and Liz.
To Phil and family my condolences Liz was a beautiful person may she rest in peace
Phil, So sorry to hear of Liz passing. If there were a gold metal for kindness, Liz would certainly receive it hands down. RIP my dear old friend.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family Phil. Keeping you in our prayers at this difficult time.
Phi and Family,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember seeing you and Liz in mass and waving across the church. Liz was such a friendly person. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers 🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️
So sorry to hear this news Liz was a sweet woman who was always smiling. Phil and Tom you are in the Guglielmo family’s thoughts and prayers.
Joe and I are very sad about Liz’s passing. Though we saw her and Phil infrequently, she always seemed happy to see us. We know what a caring person she was, especially to Joe’s Aunt Adeline. May fond memories give her loved ones comfort.
Dear Phil and family, So sorry for your loss here on earth, but you have gained an Angel to watch over you, Liz was a healer and a prayer warrior , her devotion to Our Lord Jesus and Blessed Mother was strong and effective in many lives , throughout her lifetime. She will be missed. Fondly in Christ, Lisa Procter
I’m so sorry for your loss my friend
Prayers for Liz soul and for the Families 🙏🙏
With our Deepest sympathy
Mr and Mrs Frank Fogarty
Dear Phil and Tommy, everyone that has commented truly knew the real Liz. She took you in her arms and love you, no matter who you were. She was the most kindest, positive person I have ever met. We met during a campaign and I told her I was adopted also (like her Tommy). I didn’t have any siblings so she said I’ll be your “sista”. And anytime we saw each other she called me “sista” . Thank you Liz. You will be forever missed.
Phil, we are so sorry to hear about the passing of Liz. I have known her for so many years especially when she was at the high school. Always smiling & one of the best cheerleaders ever. Condolences to you and your family. Take care. Sincerely, Raul & Ruth Simoes
My deepest sympathies to you and your family, Phil. From high school to the present, always a wonderful couple. God bless you all.
Mr. Ricci, Tommy & family, What a beautiful smile, the same as when we lived a few houses down 26 or so years ago on Ferris. My prayers of support and strength are yours.
God bless
Phil, Tom and family, I am so sorry to hear of Liz’ passing. She was so full of life, a life well lived. She will be missed by the many people that she touched. Blessings to you all, Becky Handy, RN, classmate of Liz.
Phil and Tom, I was so sorry to hear of Liz’s passing. You are in my prayers during this difficult time.
Phil and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sorry for your loss.
Phil- so very sorry for your great loss. Thinking of you and your family
I am so very sorry for your loss. May the memories you shared together bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Phil, so sorry for your loss. Liz was such a kind, sweet person. My condolences to you and your family.
Phil, I’m so so sorry to hear this! She was the most positive person I’ve ever known.She always made me smile whenever I ran into her and got a big hug from her. I’m so sorry for you and your family. My sincere sympathy to your family.
Peter Tsonos
Everyone who knew Liz knows what a delightful, optimistic, and spiritual friend we’ve lost. I met her in 1969 on a visit she made to Colby College to visit my room mate, Phil, who was, and always would be, the love of her life. As luck would have it, we shared the same birthdate (August 7th). Over fifty years of birthday greeting exchanges have followed. Condolences to Phil and also to Tommy, Kate and Lucas. family.college friend afriend
Phil and Tommy, I’m so very sorry for the passing of Liz. Liz was a cherished friend and school mate of mine. She was always upbeat, loving, supportive person and everyone who knew her will miss her. Liz was truly a unique woman. May God help you both through this difficult time.
I knew Lizzie from grade school days in Riverside and she always stood out for her energy, cheerfulness and authenticity. She was truly special and will not soon be forgotten. One of East Providence’s very very best. She and Phil did indeed make the perfect couple that you knew from the start would be together always. Condolences to Phil and family
Phil,
Our deepest sympathies and prayers to you and your family.
Russ and Barbara Weeks
Dear Phil and family
I am deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Liz was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I
On behalf of the St. Peter School Community, we extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that you will remain
in our thoughts and prayers.
Phil and Ricci family.
So sorry for your loss.
Liz was a wonderful lady.
Our thoughts & prayers surround her family , a dear friend to all of us in many a timeless prayer warrior! Her love and sprit shall live on in all of our hearts! Heaven has become the richer, as our hearts are filled with gratitude for having the privilege to know & love her
Fly high with the angels LIZZIE!
THE CLANCY FAMILY
Phil and family, we are so sorry for your loss. Liz was a wonderful person. You are in our thoughts.
Aunt Liz was the lighthouse bringing all of us Fayne fam together. Never missing the chance to textblast us all, informing us all about a birthday coming up. Aunt Liz was always! taking the most genuine pictures, and subsequently employing Tom’s help to navigate her photo reel in efforts to share them with her family. This Earth is a bit heavier now without the levity her soulful intent. Much love to everyone that will surely be feeling this loss.
Especially much love to Uncle Phil, Tom, Katie, and sweet lil’ Lucas.
May we meet again… 💚
Liz was an special angel to my mom. I am heartbroken to learn of her passing. She will never be forgotten.
Dear Family, I am so sorry to hear of Liz’s passing. There could never be a sweeter person. She is an angel now in Heaven, just like she was here on earth. My thoughts are with you all.
So painful for you Phil,Tommy, and Kate She was loved by everyone who knew her. We’ll never forget wonderful she was to Bill’s mother. God bless.
I cannot put into words how profoundly sad I am to just learn of Liz’s passing.Her bright light, warmth and love will forever live in my memory and heart as well as in those of many others, especially n those her family.Heartfelt prayers go to Phil, her son Thomas and his wife Kate and all the family. I have a red heart she made for me 30 years ago; I treasure it an and lovingly keep it in my kitchen to see it every day.I love you Lizzie.Heaven shines even brighter now. Mindy❤️❤️❤️❤️🦋💕🙏
I cannot put into words how profoundly sad I am to just learn of Liz’s passing.He bright light, warmth and love will forever live in my memory and heart as well as in those of many others, especially his n those her family.Heartfelt prayers go to Phil, her son That mas and his wife Kate and all the family. I have a red heart she made for me 30 years ago; I treasure it an and lovingly keep it in my kitchen to see it every day.I love you Lizzie.Heaven shines even brighter now. Mindy❤️❤️❤️❤️🦋💕🙏
The Good Shepherd School community offers our prayers and condolences for the Ricci family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Dear Phil and family – I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that St. Mary’s School Community is keeping you in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
My sincere sympathy to you Phil and family. Liz was a good friend through our St Brendan School years and whenever we met in the hallway at EP it was with excitement and laughter.
Wishing you comfort and peace.
Quite simply, one of the most wonderful people I have known. Liz and her husband Phil have been my dear friends for over 50 years. Liz brought a smile to all who knew her, the world is a lesser place for her passing. My love to Phil and Tommy.
Phil and family, Our deepest sympathy on the passing of a wonderful person, friend and nurse. Her spirit will shine down forever. A difficult loss for all.
Carol and George Collins
My family and I are so sorry for your loss. Will keep you all in our prayers. She was such a sweetheart. Will miss her smile and her genuine love for others.
Mr. Ricci So sorry to hear about your wife’s passing. Sending my deepest condolences to your Family. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💐💐💐 I will always remember EP’s Biggest Basketball Fan cheering us on with her Big Smile. She will be missed Happy she got to hear my voice last week. R.I.P. Mrs Ricci. Love You. ❤️
Phil , so sorry to hear about Liz .
She was a very special person always with a smile and always something nice to say . Unable to attend services but you and Liz will be in my thoughts and prayers
Phil and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Though, we only knew her a short time, Liz’s kindness and warmth radiated off of her every time we chatted. I will always remember our first night in our new house with Liz coming joyfully outside to say hello and share marshmallows and sticks with the kids over the fence.
Dear Phil and Tom, we were sad to hear of Liz’s passing. She was a constant ray of sunshine whenever we’d see her and it was always as if no time had passed. We are thinking of you! Love, Dana (Tremblay) Danehy, Stephen Tremblay and Sandy (Hall) Mancini
Phil & family…
My sincere condolences as you mourn the loss of your wife.
She will be sorely missed but her memories live on in her family and friends.
With prayers, love, & peace
Dear Phil, Tom, Kate and Liz’s precious grandson Lucas
My heart breaks for your enormous loss. There wasn’t one second in your precious Liz’s life no matter when I ran into her that complete joy didn’t transcend from every part of her. You could just be in her presence and feel complete happiness. I know a great amount of that happiness was because of all of you. If I could only bottle that up and continue holding that joy close to my heart I would be forever thankful. For now I know that she is now resting in peace in her most deserving place in heaven and receiving all that joy and love back that she so freely gave to us all . May Lucas know he had the most precious angel for his grandmother whom I am sure will be right by his side in spirit shining her joy and happiness through him.
Rosie Amaral Pereira
The students, staff, and families of Father Doyle School are praying for the Ricci family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Phil and Ricci family – be assured of the prayers and support of the Saint Philomena School community during this very difficult time. I am so deeply sorry for your loss – Brian Cordeiro
Phil, I’m so sorry for your loss. Liz was a big help at the Haunted Labyrinth. I enjoyed seeing her in pictures of the Anacora. My Mom was a big supporter of that ministry.
Praying for Liz, you, and your whole family in this time of grief.
Dear Phil and family,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your wife, Liz. May you gain strength and comfort from your memories of her.
We are heartbroken. Funny, loving, nurturing, caring – there are not enough words to describe Liz. Always there for everyone. The epitome of kindness. God truly must have needed you because you were truly an angel here on earth. We will always think of you and feel forever blessed to have known you.
Phil and family sorry for the loss of Liz a fine and
warm hearted gal. HOF
Cheerleader
Phil, Tom and Kate, we are so heartbroken at the passing of Liz. We will continue to keep you in our hearts and prayers while you heal as we have truly lost an angel.
Love,
Wayne&Anita
Phil, Tom, Katie, and Lucas,
We are so heartbroken for the loss of Liz. She was a bright light that was always shining. Her positivity and helpfulness got us through so many tough times. We are forever greatfull for the memories of our time in Grand Cayman! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Lucas has the best guardian angel anyone could ever hope for. God bless you. Love Wayne and Karen
Phil and Tommy, a huge loss for everyone who knew Liz, a more positive and encouraging person there will never be! She touched so many in a loving and caring way. Our hearts are broken for your family, and all those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with her. Our love to all of your family .
Phil & Tommy,
Please accept the sincerest condolences from the entire Ferraro family. Liz was one of the kindest souls there could possibly ever be. Sure a sweetheart. She will be truly missed.
Phil, Tom and family, we are so saddened by Liz’s passing. She was an extraordinary women. Her caring and compassion for others was a special gift. Our family will never forget how she helped and cared for my brother for so many years. She will truly be missed by many. I have always held a special place in my heart for Liz and always will. I know Her faith has brought her to heaven as an angel.
Phil and family, Liz was one of the sweetest, kindest women that I will ever know. She will be missed. Prayers and condolences to you and your family.
Phil and Family I am so very sorry to hear of Liz’s passing.
May God keep you strong for the days ahead🙏🏻
Phil We extend our sincere condolences to you,Tom and Katy. We will see you on Monday. Liz was the rock for our family, she will be missed by us all.
We know she is going to a good place.
Love you Madeline & Andrew
Patty could you forward to Phil.
RIP Liz you will be missed dearly!
Phil, my deepest sympathy and condolences to you and your family. There are no words to express the sadness in all of our hearts, for the loss of a very bright, shining star. May she continue to shine down on you and your family…and bring you peace and comfort. She will be dearly missed.
Phil,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your wife. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
A nicer, sweeter, classier, cheerier friend you will never meet. I will never forget Liz’s friendship, smile and inevitable optimism. Wife to my life-long dear friend Phil whom I met as a Freshman in College, Liz will be sorely missed.
I will always remember her beautiful smile,Phil you two were “the match made in Heaven and my heart is breaking at the thought of your great loss .peace to you and your son and may she R.I.P.
Dear Phil and family, the world lost a beautiful person and God has gained an angel,…she will be truly missed! Carol Owens 1
Phil
I am at a loss for words. Our thoughts and prayers are with you & Tom and family.
Liz was the happiest person I have ever met. Always upbeat and positive at any situation.
She is now cheering your name in heaven as she did 55 years ago.
Phil, it is heartbreaking to learn this news. Liz has been a real standout in our EPHS Class of ‘69, always the same genuinely kind and friendly person to all. Surely she must have been a fine, compassionate nurse as well. We offer sincere sympathy to you and your family. In time, may you find comfort and peace in your memories. We honor Liz and her life with you.
My condolences to Phil and his family at this time , I remember when you and liz met in high school, she a cheerleader you a baseball player , what a great couple, may liz rest in peace 🙏🏿❤️
Robert Lima Sr. class of Ep 1969
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always think of her as the happy friendly energetic cheerleader from the class of 69. I wish you and her family peace and comfort. May she rest in peace with our Lord.
Phil and family…..so sorry for your loss..for she was a loving and giving person..from the time I met her at EPHS/class of 1969..until years later at one of the mini reunion’s..she remained the same…she will be sadly missed…GO TOWNIES
Phil, I am so saddened for you and family. Liz was a class act and all of us who knew her are better for it. My heart breaks for you.
To Phil Ricci and Family,I am so sorry of Liz’s Passing,She was a wonderful person the many year’s I have known Her.May She Rest in Peace and God Bless Her.
Phil and family; I am heartbroken to hear of Liz’s passing. She was a beautiful person and I know will be deeply missed. She was a shining star. Deepest condolences.
Phil, We are so sorry to hear of Liz’s passing. Sending our love and prayers.
Phil, Sending deep sympathy and condolences to you and your family.
May the memories Liz sends to you bring warmth to your heart as she surrounds you all with her love.
To Phil and your family so sorry for your lost of your wife Liz. I went to St Brendan with her. She always had a smile on face. She was a really good person. I last saw her at one Mimi class reunion..I think was the place on North Broadway.We talked about our time at St Brendan School.
Phil, I am so sorry to hear of Liz’s passing. She was a class act. Never anything negative came from her, Such a sweet and caring person. May you rest in peace dear friend. We’re all going to miss you Liz.
Phil and family so sorry about Liz my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Page Sherlock
Sending deep sympathy and condolences to you Phil as you mourn this loss. May you be surrounded by love and peace. Liz will always be remembered as the beautiful joyful cheerleader classmate of many years ago. She will be dearly missed.
Ron and I send our love and prayers to you, Phil and Tommy and family on the loss of Liz. Liz was an Angel on Earth. She will be deeply missed. Ron & Roni