Stefano Zirilli

Stefano Zirilli, age 88, passed away May 28, 2024 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Domenica “Mimma” (Cucinotta) Zirilli, to whom he was happily married for 63 years.

Born in Messina, Italy, he was a son of the late Nunzio and Giovanna (Ammendolia) Zirilli.

At the age of 11 he began his apprenticeship as a barber which began a career that spanned over 70 years. In 1966, he immigrated to Providence with his wife Mimma and son Nunzio. In 1969, he established Stefano´s European Barber Shop on the East Side of Providence. He semi-retired in 2000, turning over the barber shop to his eldest son Nunzio. He continued to come in part time to take care of his loyal longtime clients, until he fully retired in 2021 at which point his younger son Stefano joined the family business. Stefano´s fine barbering skills were well known, and clients would sit and wait to get a haircut from him. He was affectionately called ¨The Mayor of Hope Street¨.

During his semi-retirement Stefano enjoyed gardening, traveling with his wife and spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed making memories with his entire family and passing on traditions to his children and grandchildren. He most enjoyed having the whole family over each Sunday for Sunday dinner all together. Stefano was a big Celtics fan, and almost never missed watching a game.

He was the devoted father of Nunzio (Catherine) Zirilli, Stefano A. Zirilli, and Sabrina Zirilli-DiMasi and cherished nonno of Giovanna, Stefano, Izzy, and Gabriele.

His visitation will be held Friday, May 31, 2024 from 9:00-10:30 a.m. in the Pontarelli-Marino Home, 971 Branch Ave, Providence followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. in St. Anthony Church, 1413 Mineral Spring Ave, North Providence. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to No Kid Hungry, https://www.nokidhungry.org/