Roberta Ricci

Roberta Marie (Catelli) Ricci lived life on her own terms. We loved her for her feisty spirit.

We are heartbroken at her passing on Wednesday, October 17, surrounded by her loving family and friends at home in Smithfield, R.I.

We loved her for her sense of style, outspoken opinions, and unwavering generosity. “Bert” or “Bootie,” as she was affectionately nicknamed, enjoyed sunny Florida and her life there for over 20 years with her devoted husband, Felix Ricci and cherished neighbors. In her yearly visits to Rhode Island, she enjoyed dining out and chatting with her aunts, cousins, and friends; shopping; and playing with her grandchildren, and great-granddaughter.

Bert loved her jewelry and liked to sparkle. Her nails were always manicured, and her hair was always colored and styled. She was proud to often do both herself.

Practical to the core, Bert didn’t believe in wasting time or money. She liked to organize and loved beautiful things.

She learned about efficiency in her many years as a waitress at the former Ricci’s Restaurant in North Providence, R.I., as a hostess at Florida hotels, and as an optical assistant in Smithfield, R.I.

Roberta spent over 40 years of her professional life serving others. She knew her customers’ tastes and catered to their needs. She knew her family and was generous in sharing her interests and resources, particularly with her cousins.

Roberta leaves her devoted husband, Felix; stepsons, John Ricci, Robert Ricci and wife Kristine; stepdaughter, Diane Sherman; grandchildren, Jonathan, Robert, and Timothy and wife Ashley Ricci, Aaron and Adam Gallucci, Christopher Sabetta, great-grandaughter Lilliana Ricci; aunts, Alice and “Dottie” Catelli, and many cousins, relatives, and friends.

We are saddened at a life taken too soon. You will forever be our angel.

Services and burial at St. Ann Cemetery will be private.