James Pafundi

James Pafundi, passed away suddenly on October 5, 2023, at the age of 101.

He was born in Wells, Vermont on April 14, 1922 to Antonio Pafundi and Maria (LaPadulla) Pafundi. The family then moved to North Providence, where he grew up.

Jimmy had a wonderful childhood surrounded by all 9 of his brothers.  He was drafted to fight in WWII as a young man.  He served under General Patton in both France and Germany and landed on Utah Beach during the Normandy Invasion. He received two Purple Hearts for injuries he sustained in the war.  He went on to become a carpenter and built many homes in the area with two of his brothers, Mike and Daniel (Duke). He later switched careers to become a granite cutter with the Castelucci Brothers. During this time he married the love of his life, Lorraine Robert in 1948 and they shared 55 years together.

Jimmy was always willing to lend a hand to anyone at the drop of a hat.  Whether it be painting, building a deck, a household chore, or taking care of his grandsons.  He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved a good prank!  Jimmy was a great cook and the whole family loved his Italian specialties.  They were expected at every family event.

He was the most amazing, loving, and helpful dad, father-in-law, and grampa and will be so missed by all of us.  He was one of a kind.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter Gail Pafundi Peterson, son-in-law Jon Peterson, grandsons Noli Peterson and wife Audrey, Kristian Peterson and wife Rachel,  great grandaughter Daisy Lorraine Peterson and great grandson Oliver James Peterson.  He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his parents, Antonio and Maria; his brothers Biaz, Guiseppe, Pasquale, Antonio, Daniel, Michael, Louis, Salvatore, and Francesco and their wives.  

A chapel service will be at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter on Friday, October 13th at 11 am.  Military honors will follow.  Those attending are invited to meet at the Administration Building at 10:45 am to join the procession to the chapel.