Donald James Browne II

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our precious son Don (Donnie), a beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend, who left this world unexpectedly but peacefully at home on September 18, 2026. Born on March 2, 1973, in Warwick, RI, Don was a beacon of love and kindness to all who knew him.

Don was the cherished son of Donald Browne and Cathy Green, who, along with his stepfather Joe Green, stepmother Sharon Browne, his sister Kerri Browne, and stepsisters Jenn Taylor (husband Dylan) and Jacqui Zitnay, will forever hold his memory close. He is also survived by his loving Aunt Noreen and husband Don Abrahams; uncles, David Browne, Bruce Laramee (wife Laurie Dunlap), and Paul Laramee; lots of wonderful cousins; and two very special friends, Ben and Garrietta Proutey, who were like family to him. Though predeceased by his grandparents Edward and Claire Laramee, Harold and Shirley Browne, their legacy of kindness and helpfulness lived on in Don.

Don had a love of God, family, and Country. A graduate of GT Christian Academy in RI, Don answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps, where he was honored with several commendations during his years of service. His commitment to excellence and honor earned him an honorable discharge, a testament to his dedication and spirit.

Don’s passion extended beyond his service as he found a lifelong career in construction, learning the trade alongside his gramps, Uncle Bruce, and dad. What began as a family tradition evolved into a lifelong calling. As a dedicated, longtime project manager, Don earned the deep respect of tradesmen and colleagues alike. He was widely recognized for his great work ethic, deep knowledge, and unwavering dependability that anchored every project he touched. He held his craftsmanship to the highest standards of quality, leaving a lasting mark on his industry. While he built a highly respected professional career, family always remained Don's greatest priority. He lent his building skills sacrificially to family and friends. He was always willing to roll up his sleeves for the people he loved. For generations to come, loved ones will look at their homes and remember the physical imprint he made in their lives and in the very structures they live in. Every beam, wall, and finished detail stands as a testament to his generous heart, where he poured his heart into building not just structures, but relationships and community. His commitment to helping others led him to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, where he worked on projects that provided hope and homes to those in need.

An adventurer at heart, Don found solace and joy in the great outdoors. His love for nature was boundless, and he took on the formidable challenge of completing the Appalachian Trail, a journey that spoke volumes of his determination and appreciation for life’s simple wonders. He also enjoyed some skydiving. An animal lover at heart, he shared a special connection with the creatures around him and brought a gentle kindness to all living things. Above all, Don will be remembered for the incredible warmth, boundless generosity, and sharp sense of humor he brought into every room. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, laughter, and a family deeply grateful for the beautiful life he built for them.

A service to celebrate Don’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Butterfields Funeral Home in Cranston, RI. Burial will be at Highland Memorial Cemetery, Johnston, Rhode Island. Family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate the incredible life he led.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Don's memory to Nafasimentorpoint.com, an organization close to his heart, or Habitat for Humanity, or a local animal shelter.

As we sadly say goodbye for now, Don, we know that we will see you someday soon. "For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21. We hold dear the memories of a man who lived life fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. With every sunrise and gentle breeze, we will remember his spirit, his laughter, and the love he shared with the world. Rest in peace, dear Donnie. Your legacy of kindness and courage will live on in our hearts forever. SEMPER FI.