Robert Ernest Cranshaw

Born in Fall River and raised in Swansea, MA, Bob was the son of the late Ernest and Lorraine (Marcoux) Cranshaw. He was the devoted husband of Maria “Mary” (Beatini) Cranshaw, the beloved father of Christin M. Cranshaw, and the dear brother of Carol Miranda (Michael). He also leaves behind five nephews and their families — Lance Miranda (Paula), Justin Miranda (Laurie), Keith Miranda (Danielle), Salvatore Beatini (Lisa), and Louis Beatini (Melanie) — as well as countless friends and neighbors whose lives he enriched.

Bob will be remembered as a man of courage, duty, and deep devotion to his family and community. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran who served during the Vietnam War, he carried the values of honor and resilience with him throughout his life. He continued that commitment to service as a dedicated Providence firefighter, spending much of his career at the Branch Avenue and Admiral Street fire stations, where he earned the lasting respect and brotherhood of all who served alongside him.

Beyond his uniform, Bob found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an enthusiastic lover of cars and golf, and a passionate photographer with a gift for capturing the beauty of the world around him. Known for his steady presence, his humor, and his strength of character, Bob leaves behind a legacy of service, sacrifice, and unwavering love that will live on in the many lives he touched.

In honoring Bob’s memory, gather some of your favorite people, share a meal at a great restaurant, and be sure to order dessert — just as he would have wanted.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service Friday April 24, 2026 at 11am at Pontarelli-Marino Funeral Home, 971 Branch Ave. Burial with military honors will follow at Rhode Island Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Exeter.

Due to health concerns for the family, visiting hours are respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the charity of your choice.