Joseph Celona Jr.

He was the beloved husband of the late Lenilda Spino Celona. They were married for 68 years. The son of the late Giuseppe and Antonina (Femino) Celona, he is survived by his 4 children, Nina Ackmann (Larry) of North Kingstown, Thomas Celona (Kathleen) of Lakewood Ranch, FL, Mary Angelo (David) and Joan Ricci (Domenic) of Lincoln. He guided his children, nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren with many words of wisdom, including his favorite poem. “If a task is once begun, never leave it ‘til it’s done. Be the labor great or small, Do it well or not at all.” Family was the center of his life and family gatherings were one of his greatest pleasures. Grandchildren were Alisa Sanderson (Scott) with great-grandchildren Alec, Kayla and Kyle; Anita Hoag (Michael) and great-grandchildren Andrew and Katharine; Danielle Keegan (Brian) and great-grandchild Abigail; Jason Geraci; Rebecca Gaumitz (Rodney) and great-grandchildren Tyler, Collin and Gavin; Michael Geraci; Dana Ricci; Karen Siciliano (Salvatore); and Thomas Ricci.

With his family, he was the owner and operator of Celona’s Service Station, Celona Ice Company, and Rhode Island Cinder Block Co. He was an active member of the North Providence Lions Club for 77 years and was a life member of the Geneva Volunteer Fire Company. Always abreast of current events and interested in the world, he read the newspaper daily.

He attributed his longevity to hard work, moderation and “counting his blessings”. Chi va piano, va sano, e lontano, He who goes slow, goes safe and sound, and goes a long way.

Visitation Friday, 4-8 p.m. with a funeral on Saturday at 9 a.m. from the PONTARELLI-MARINO Home, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Anthony Church, 1413 Mineral Spring Avenue, North Providence. Burial in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Edward’s Food and Wellness Center, 997 Branch Ave. Providence, 02904 or The Literacy Center, 80 N. Main St. Attleboro, MA 02703.