"Jack was such a kind, selfless man. I am blessed to have had his friendship. Barbara and family, my sincere sympathy for your loss. Jack was one of a kind and will forever be remembered fondly by everyone who knew him. He was a fighter and lived a very rich life. He would tell me that family and friends were his greatest accomplishment. He was so proud of his family and would do anything for the people he loved. I know how difficult the past years have been for all of you. "
In loving memory of
John J. Ripa
June 16, 1946 - August 3, 2022
John J. Ripa, Sr, age 76, of Middletown, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on August 3, 2022.
Jack was born in Newport, RI to Sebastian and Florence (Weaver) Ripa. Jack married his high school sweetheart Barbara (Gibson) Ripa of Middletown on May 14, 1964, and together they raised 4 children.
Jack is most remembered for his love of family and close friends. He was an adventurous soul, who lived life to the fullest. Jack's passions included golf, skiing, sailing and he was a die-hard New England Patriots fan. He made sure that his children and grandchildren were able to experience his passions as well. Jack had an amazing work ethic that kept him busy working and helping others from sunrise to sunset on a daily basis right up until the time of his passing.
Jack was a faithful and dedicated employee who worked for Anthony's Seafood for 30 years, Newport School Department for 15 years, and worked as an electrician serving numerous small businesses for over 30 years.
Jack is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara, his children, Barbara A. Ripa-Brown (Drew), Carmine P. Ripa, John J. Ripa, Jr. (Lisa), Julie A. Pinto (John). Jack is survived by his sisters Josie Sleeper and Sandra Cotta. Additionally, "Poppie" will be missed by his 13 grandchildren, Amory, Nathaniel, Reily, Masie, Caroline, Thomas, Sebastian, Alexis, John Henry, Ashley, Andrew, Allison, and Taylor, as well as his 10 great grandchildren.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Sebastian and Florence Ripa and beloved brother, Carmine Ripa.
Calling Hours will be held Friday, August 12, 2022, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held for Jack on Saturday, August 13, 2022, at 10:00 AM at St. Lucy's Church, 909 West Main Rd., Middletown. Burial will follow at St. Columba Catholic Cemetery, 465 Brown's Ln., Middletown, Rhode Island.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jack's memory to The Middletown Rescue Wagon Association or Boys and Girls Club of Newport County, www.bgcnewport.org.
The Ripa family would like to extend a special thank you to the Newport Hospital, Middletown Fire Department, Hope Hospice, and Visiting Nurses. Their expertise and professionalism were instrumental in Jack's comfort and care.
Tributes
"Words cannot express how you will be missed. Nancy and I will always hold you dear to our hearts. To Barb and the kids please stay strong and know that Jack will be missed by many. Thanks for the memories and the good times."
"To the entire Ripa clan, we are so sorry to hear of Jack's passing. You're in our thoughts and prayers. If we can do anything just holler. all our love Steven, Jack and Darlene Pinksaw"
"I'm so sorry to hear about "Unca Jack." My love to Auntie Barbara and all the kids, grands and greats. I'm thinking also of Aunties Sandra and Josie and all of my cousins, sending my love. I have fond memories of my fun uncle. Dearborn Street, indeed, as mentioned by Sonny...few families from our area probably have memories of that type of family neighborhood, and those of us who have them hold them precious. May you all find peace and strength as you move forward."
"We at the Lifespan Cancer Institute so enjoyed caring for Mr Ripa. He was such a gentle gentleman. I?m sure he will be missed by so many. Take comfort in your many memories. "
"Jack was an enthusiastic participant in the adventure of life. He had the wisdom and skill to enjoy everyday whatever the challenges. His marriage to Barbara was an example of loving teamwork. I will miss our driveway discussions and the envelope exchange. Jane Viti "
"This was a very sad day for me. As most of you know, Jackie was one of several cousins that lived our early lives on Dearborn Street, a truly Italian family neighborhood. What a life it was. Generations of cousins, growing up together. It could not have been better. Jackie was definitely a leader. He could do anything, and always offered a helping hand. I will miss him dearly. Rest in Peace "Cuz". See you on the other side. "