Nancy L Derrig

She was born in Newark, New Jersey to the late Angelina Albergato Laudati and the late Aniello Laudati.

Nancy attended Keene Teachers College before moving to Providence with Richard in 1967 so he could pursue his doctorate at Brown University. After a brief period of teaching English, she happily chose to stay home with their two young children for several years. She returned to the workforce and served in the Rhode Island Governor’s Energy Office, the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, and as the Executive Director of Providence 350.

Nancy went on to serve as the Superintendent of Parks for the city of Providence from 1985 to 2003. Through her leadership, sweeping improvements were made to parks and playgrounds and increased recreational opportunities. Her work also revitalized Roger Williams Park by expanding its role in community education and introducing critical conservation efforts.

Nancy’s rich and rewarding career was surpassed, every day, however, by the fulfilling life with which she knew she was blessed. She and Richard loved raising their family in Providence. Nancy enjoyed and was enthusiastically supportive of Richard’s academic and scholarly endeavors, as he was of hers.

Loving and welcoming, Nancy was especially admired for her passion and charisma. Nancy and Richard were avid traveling companions, exploring wonderful places across the country and over the globe.

Nancy is survived by her cherished son Matthew Richard Derrig, her beloved daughter Jill Derrig Rossi and her husband Peter, and her much adored granddaughter Tess Angela Rossi. She is also survived by her brother Niel Laudati and his wife MaryAnn, and her many nieces and nephews: Barbara Laudati Rose, Niel Laudati, Patricia Derrig Murphy, Donna Derrig Murphy, Robert Derrig, Jean Derrig, Karen Derrig Swider, Michael Derrig, and the late Joseph Derrig.

A Mass of Christian Burial, to which friends and relatives are invited, will take place at St. Raymond’s Church, 1240 North Main Street, Providence, at 10AM on Wednesday, March 2.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Rhode Island Food Bank and the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center.