Born in Aughnasheelin, Ballinamore, County Leitrim, Ireland, Pat was the son of the late Francis and Katherine (Mulvey) Dwyer. In 1961, he immigrated to Providence with his family, where he built the life and community he would proudly call home. He attended St. Edward School and La Salle Academy before pursuing studies in Criminal Justice at Roger Williams University.
Pat dedicated his life to public service and the protection of others. He proudly served with the Rhode Island State Police, where he rose through the ranks and retired as a Lieutenant in 2005 after a distinguished 25-year career. Following his retirement, he continued his commitment to law enforcement as a Lieutenant with the New Shoreham Police Department on Block Island for several years. Throughout his career, Pat earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike through his integrity, leadership, and unwavering sense of duty.
Family was at the heart of Pat's life. He was the devoted and loving father of Lauren Dwyer Ricci and her husband, Michael, and Elizabeth Dwyer, both of North Providence. Nothing brought Pat greater joy than being "Grandpa" to his cherished granddaughters, Layla Joan Ricci and Sloan Marie Ricci. He adored them beyond measure and took immense pride in watching them grow.
He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Rosemary M. Dwyer and Barbara Dwyer; his brother-in-law, Donald T. Martin; and his stepchildren, Greta Sloan, Elsa Hunziker, and Peter Hunziker. He was predeceased by his beloved brothers, Sean Dwyer and Thomas L. Dwyer, and his sisters, Marie McGlynn and Kathleen Martin.
A proud and devoted uncle, Pat shared a close bond with his many nieces and nephews, as well as his grandnieces and grandnephews. He took great pride in their accomplishments, always offering guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. Known for his warmth, generosity, quick wit, and gift for storytelling, Pat leaves behind countless memories that will be treasured by all who knew and loved him.
Pat's visitation will be held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. at the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. in St. Augustine Church, 639 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Providence. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Pat's memory may be made to Children’s Friend, https://childrensfriendri.org/
Though he leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication, Pat will be remembered most for the love he shared with his family, the friendships he cherished, and the kindness, strength, and generosity that touched so many lives. His presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
