Sansone Funeral Home

06/17/2026

In honor of the country’s 250th birthday and being in Bristol, RI, home of the longest running 4th of July parade in the country, the staff of the Sansone Funeral Home is wearing patriotic ties on all services from Memorial Day until July 4th.

06/15/2026

We want to thank Our Lady of Mount Carmel for another terrific ‘Takeout Thursday’. We enjoyed ‘meatball madness’ this Thursday. See you in two weeks for ‘Chicken Parm Thursday’.

06/11/2026

Funeral Director Spotlight: Timothy R. Nay

Timothy Nay has been involved in funeral service for more than 40 years. Born in Peterborough, NH, he was raised and educated in the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire.

For decades, he has had longstanding connections to the Town of Bristol and surrounding communities with extended family and friends and resided in the area for many years. He once again looks forward to living in the community he loves so much.

Timothy has been affiliated with the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home in North Attleboro, MA since 1998 and looks forward to continuing that relationship as he also serves the families of the greater Bristol area at Sansone Funeral Home.

He started in funeral service at the age of 16 at the Holt Funeral Homes in Henniker and Hillsboro, NH, and the Jellison Funeral Home in Peterborough, NH. In 1984, Timothy enrolled in the New England Institute of Applied Arts and Sciences in Boston, MA, where he earned an associate degree in funeral service and graduated magna cm laude in 1986. He then attended Northeastern University and the former Bryant College, now Bryant University.

A licensed funeral director in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, Timothy has long been actively involved in the community, participating in several civic, social, and fraternal organizations, having served on several boards of directors over the years.
His proudest civic contribution is in the formation of “The Ella Project” honoring his late grandmother which aids and feeds the homeless.

Timothy has a love for travel, having sailed the Amazon, scaled to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro alone, searched for the elusive silver-back gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda and participated in several other African safaris; unquestionably, though, his greatest satisfaction is having assisted thousands of families over the years during their time of grief.

06/10/2026

Joseph Negro

Joseph Negro, 68, of Bristol, RI passed away unexpectedly at his residence on June 9, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Maria Nadine (Carmone) Negro who died in 2002.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island on November 7, 1957, he was the son of the late Joseph F. Negro and the late Dorothy A. (Estrella) Negro. He was a lifelong resident of the Bristol community and was a 1976 graduate of the former Bristol High School. Joe received his degree from New England Tech.

Joe began his career working in the boat building industry in Bristol, and surrounding towns. He worked at Electric Boat in Groton as a part of the submarine drafting team. He then took his degree and shared his knowledge by teaching CAD and Drafting at Dighton-Rehoboth Tech and Newport High School. Joe was employed as a drafting engineer for Tiffany's for many years prior to his retirement.

He loved being with his family and his many friends, and would make new acquaintances wherever he went. He had a passion for sailing, kayaking, playing guitar, tinkering around his home, building model planes, and keeping a pristine yard.

Left to mourn his loss are his children Faith Negro of Pawtucket, RI, Agnes Negro of Warren, RI, and Vanessa Negro of Pawtucket, RI, as well as his beloved step-son, Chad Lambert of Bristol, RI and four granddaughters. He also leaves his siblings Virginia Allen and her husband, David Allen, of Moosup, CT, and Richard Negro and his partner, Julie Medina, of Franklin, MA, as well as several cousins and two generations of nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are warmly welcome to attend visitation on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm in the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI.

Funeral Mass on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:00 am at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 141 State Street, Bristol, Rhode Island. There will be no public funeral cortege from the funeral home prior to Mass.

Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol, RI where he will be laid to rest with his beloved wife.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his name may be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Bristol, RI.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.sansonefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809. (401) 253-7110

View Joseph Negro's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/09/2026

At Sansone Funeral Home, we believe small acts of kindness help strengthen the communities we serve.

Today, we had the pleasure of stopping by Blue Wave Car Wash in Bristol with some donuts to thank their hardworking team for all they do. We appreciate local businesses that help make our community a great place to live and work.

Thank you to the crew at Blue Wave Car Wash for your dedication and friendly service. We're grateful to be part of such a supportive community! 🍩💙

06/01/2026

David Bruce Watt

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of David Bruce Watt on June 1, 2026, at Hope Hospice in Providence, RI. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on March 12, 1956, Dave brought warmth, laughter, and inspiration to everyone he encountered throughout his 70 years. Dave passed away from complications of head and neck cancer after a valiant 43-year battle with skin cancer. He was a miracle of modern medicine, having survived stage 4 melanoma in 2015 and two bouts of head and neck cancer in 2018 and 2020. Despite these challenges, he never complained and continued to live his life to the fullest.

Dave was the beloved son of Eleanor Wolfe Watt and the late James E. Watt, Jr. He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Debbie (Zaia) Watt, with whom he built a life after marrying in 1982, on Shelter Island, NY. Together, they raised two children in Springfield, VA: Alex Shannon (Jack) of Encinitas, CA and Jeffrey Watt of Hurricane, UT, before moving to Bristol, RI in 2016. Dave is also survived by sisters Nancy Emerson (Karl) and Susan Hauver (Bert); brothers-in-law Chris Zaia (Angela) and Mark Zaia; and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.

A proud alumnus of GC Marshall High School in Vienna, VA (Class of 1974), Dave continued his education at the University of Virginia, graduating in 1978. It was here that he was commissioned as an ensign in the US Navy, serving from 1978 to 1985. As a P3 Naval Flight Officer in VP-10 and later a recruiter for the nuclear power program, Dave demonstrated dedication and excellence, traits that he would carry into his civilian career.

After his military service, Dave embarked on a career as a defense analyst for Systems Planning and Analysis. His keen organizational skills and passion for community service were evident in his volunteer work and eventual leadership of the Alexandria (VA) Red Cross Waterfront Festival. This experience inspired him to self-publish an industry guidebook, "BIG E, little e," for event planning in the DC Metro area. Dave's love for running and event coordination found a perfect home as the sponsorship manager for the Marine Corps Marathon, a role that combined his professional expertise with his personal passions. After his kids joined the neighborhood swim team, Dave also volunteered as a timer, referee, team representative and eventually, a division coordinator in the Northern Virginia Swim League.

Dave's final role was as the director of the American Running Association, where he championed running and fitness for youth and adults. He created the annual high school cross country event, Battle of the Potomac, and organized Run-a-Mile events nationwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the running community. He also led the American Medical Athletic Association, which promoted physicians and running at an annual conference at the Boston Marathon. A founding member of the Sub-3 Marathon Drinking Club, Dave completed over 20 marathons. Dave also generously volunteered his time as a cross-country coach at West Springfield High School, where he mentored countless young athletes.

Dave was generous with his time and resources, mentoring many and offering support whenever needed. His love for sports, especially distance running, was matched by his enthusiasm for photography, capturing moments of sports and nature with an artist's eye. In retirement, Dave loved visiting friends and family from New England to Northern Virginia to southern Utah and California. Dave's ability to connect with people from all walks of life was legendary, often accompanied by his infectious joy, a raised beer, and a dance as if no one was watching.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Rhode Island's Newport Hospital, the Wound Clinic, Vanderbilt Rehabilitation Center, Rhode Island Hospital, and especially Hope Hospice, where Dave received excellent, kind, and compassionate care during his final days.

A private memorial service will be held at a future date. In celebrating Dave, we remember a life rich with love, dedication, and impact. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, mentorship, and joy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace Dave, as you continue your journey, forever running free.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809. www.sansonefuneralhome.com.

View David Bruce Watt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/01/2026

Edward William Zesk

Edward William Zesk, of North Providence, Rhode Island, passed away on May 29, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness. He was 74 years old. He is survived by his three sons: Walter Zesk (Joanna) of Providence, Rhode Island; Michael Zesk (Emily) of Virginia; and Andrew Zesk of North Kingstown, Rhode Island; as well as four beloved grandchildren.

To those who knew and loved him, he was Ed, Eddie, Dad, and Granddad. He was a devoted father, proud grandfather, dear brother, cherished uncle, and loyal friend who will be profoundly missed.

Ed was born in Middletown, Rhode Island, to Walter Edward Zesk and Betty Zesk. As the son of a career Navy noncommissioned officer, he spent his childhood moving throughout the United States. Yet no matter where life took him, Rhode Island always remained his home. He graduated from Middletown High School before earning a scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He balanced playing football for the Crusaders with working nights in a small Worcester art museum, where his appreciation for art took hold. At Holy Cross, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree while simultaneously receiving his commission in the United States Navy.

During a distinguished naval career, Ed rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander and spent years at sea aboard aircraft carriers, traveling the globe in service to his country and the Navy he proudly served. He later brought his talents to the Pentagon as a public affairs officer before returning to Rhode Island, where he played an important role in planning and conducting war games at the Naval War College in Newport.

After retiring from the Navy, Ed devoted his professional life to improving healthcare access and affordability. He served as Vice President of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Hospital Association, and as Executive Director of Aging 2000 before opening his own marketing and advocacy firm, The Wickford Group. Throughout his life, he remained deeply committed to public service and civic engagement, contributing his time and leadership to numerous boards and organizations, including Save The Bay, Keep Providence Beautiful, Crossroads RI, and the Narragansett Bay Commission. And no matter what his age, he stayed active with his beloved Providence Rugby Club as long as he was physically able.

Approaching life with a generosity of spirit, Ed leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and intellectual curiosity. Believing deeply in standing up for those who could not stand up for themselves, he was known for helping strangers as readily as family and friends. A source of sound counsel to many, he listened thoughtfully and offered balanced perspectives. His ability to rise above the petty and focus on what truly mattered left a lasting impression on all who knew him.



He instilled in others a love of competition tempered by sportsmanship, whether cheering for his beloved New England Patriots or enjoying a spirited game of Axis & Allies with his sons.

Above all, he embodied a sense of carpe diem-a reminder to embrace life fully and make the most of every moment. Ed could command a room simply by walking into it. His warmth and charisma drew people to him, knowing they were in for lively conversation and a memorable time. He delighted in music, dancing, spirited debate, and bringing people together over good food and better wine, never missing an opportunity to celebrate life's joyful moments.

Ed's love of sailing, ships, and the sea fueled his passion for lifelong learning and his conviction that there was always something new waiting to be discovered just beyond the horizon. The lessons he taught, the friendships he nurtured, and the example he set will continue to guide and inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.

As one of his favorite poets, Rudyard Kipling, wrote, he sought to "fill the unforgiving minute with sixty seconds' worth of distance run." Having now embarked upon his final voyage into the unknown, sailing under a letter of marque of uncertain probity, he leaves behind a life well lived, a family who loved him dearly, and a legacy that will endure in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

With a deep appreciation for life's simplest pleasures, he found few things more satisfying than watching the sun set over Newport's Second Beach, a place that reflected the sense of home, peace, and belonging he cherished throughout his life. Just as he would have wanted, family, friends, and loved ones will gather this summer along Rhode Island's beautiful shores to celebrate his life with music, good wine, lobster rolls, and an abundance of stories, laughter, and friendship.

Instead of flowers, we encourage donations to the Kim and Howard G. Sutton Endowment for Crossroads Rhode Island. Donations can be made to the fund at 160 Broad Street, Providence, RI, 02903, or online at www.crossroadsri.org

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.sansonefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809. (401) 253-7110

View Edward William Zesk's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/26/2026

Joan E. Roth

Joan (Doyle) Roth, 99, of Bristol, RI, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026. She was the wife of the late G. Andrew Roth.

Born in Fall River, MA, she was the daughter of the late Francis J. and Joanna E. (Sullivan) Doyle.

Joan is survived by her daughters Joanna Roth, of Bristol, and Kathryn Roth of Providence.

In addition to her daughters, she is survived by her niece and goddaughter Jane McSoley of Bristol, niece Anne Condon of Jamestown, niece Jennifer Robinson of Somerset, and goddaughter Rita Daniels of Bristol. Joan also leaves many devoted nieces and nephews across the country.

Joan was preceded in death by her sisters, Frances Doyle McSoley, and Constance Doyle Talbot.

Joan grew up in Bristol and Warren in a family of musicians and educators. She was a life long parishioner of St. Mary's Church in Bristol. Joan was a 1944 graduate of C**t Memorial High School in Bristol. She went on to receive an undergraduate degree in Education in 1948, and a Master of Education with a Major in Music from Rhode Island College in 1953.

After beginning her teaching career in the Bristol school system she became the music teacher at the Josephine F. Wilbur School in Little Compton. In Little Compton she taught music to all grades for 26 years. Though Joan retired in 1985, her love of teaching and music led her back to positions at Our Lady of Fatima High School and Roger Williams University. She was a dedicated educator for over 50 years.

In addition to teaching, singing was always a central part of Joan's life. Her early vocal study led to membership and an assisting conductor role with the internationally renowned Peloquin Choral, founded by the liturgical composer and conductor C. Alexander Peloquin. With the Peloguin Chorale she toured the US and Europe, singing at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

This experience, together with Joan's love of teaching, made community choral music a particular passion, as she felt it brought music making to everyone regardless of their musical training. Throughout her career she formed several choirs, beginning with the St Mary's Church Choir in 1972 and culminating in the Bristol County Chorus. In 1982 Joan offered the first Many Moods of Christmas concert which became an enduring tradition, filling St Mary's church and ushering in Bristol's Christmas season for over 30 years. She conducted her final Many Moods concert at the age of 90. Joan always believed that everyone could learn great music and loved to see her students and choir members moved and inspired by what they could achieve.

In 1986, Joan was given what she felt to be Bristol's highest honor, Chief Marshal of Bristol's Fourth of July Celebration. At that time, she was the second woman Chief Marshal in the town's 200 year tradition, the first being her aunt, M. Theresa Donovan in 1957.

Joan was a founding member of the Friends of Linden Place, formed in 1989 to purchase and preserve the historic mansion. Through the years Joan served as a tour guide, unofficial historian, and president and member of the board of directors. She especially enjoyed her roles as docent and guide on Bristol bus tours which allowed her to share stories drawn from her vast knowledge of Bristol's history. She was also a member of the Bristol Rotary for many years, and delighted in playing piano and rousing the group to sing at their weekly meetings.

Joan loved the water, sailing with her husband and daughters throughout their lives. She loved to sit by the bay at C**t Park, never tiring of the wind, the water and the passers by.

Joan's deep love of Bristol and passion for music led her to work tirelessly to bring music to the community and to preserve and share Bristol's history. For those who knew her, her love of people and the joy and enthusiasm which she brought to every experience will always be remembered.

The family wishes to expresses our deep gratitude to all who supported us through Joan's last months, especially Sandi Siembab and the dedicated and compassionate staff of Hope Hospice and Bayada Home Health Care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to Hope Hospice and Community Music Works.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visitation on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI.

Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 9:30 am from the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am at St. Mary Church, Wood Street, Bristol, RI.

Burial will be private in St. Mary's Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol, RI.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.sansonefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809. (401) 253-7110

View Joan Roth's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/23/2026

Santina Pagano Myers

Santina (Pagano) Myers, 88, of Bristol, RI passed away at her residence surrounded by her loving family on May 21, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Bernard Joseph Myers to whom she was married on February 6, 1965.

Born in Zara, Italy on February 17, 1938, she was a daughter of the late Francesco Pagano and the late Theresa (Sicuro) Pagano. Upon returning to the United States, she and her family settled in Bristol, RI.

She received her Bachelor of Science degree in education from the former Rhode Island College of Education, now Rhode Island College.

Early in her career, Mrs. Myers was employed as a full-time elementary school teacher and later as a substitute teacher having worked in the Portsmouth school system, the Bristol school district, at St. Elizabeth's and in earlier years at a grammar school in Quebec City, Canada that served many immigrant Italian families.

She was a lifetime parishioner and supporter of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, Bristol.

Among her favorite pastimes were gardening and visiting gardens, including botanical gardens throughout her travels. Butchart Gardens in British Columbia was her favorite.

She treasured her time spent traveling extensively with her husband and their friends, especially to Spain and to visit with her extended family in Italy.

Her creative hobbies yielded many watercolor paintings, drawings, scrapbooks, and needlework that her family will long cherish. She also dedicated significant time and passion to translating the many letters between her parents from the pre-WWII era; she compiled a comprehensive timeline and a moving record of their immigrant journey to America into a book, My Mother's Pocketbook. It is currently in the final editing stage.

However, more than anything she adored her grandchildren, who were of utmost importance to her. Making her laugh, making her fret, and losing to her in cards are core memories for the five of them.

In addition to her husband with whom she shared more than 61 years, she leaves her sister, Rosaria Ryder of Nashua, NH and a brother-in-law: Wayne Matthews of Houston, Texas; her children: Christopher Myers of Bristol, RI; Donna Myers and her husband, Aaron Lebovitz, of Oak Park, Illinois; her loving grandchildren: Arthur Myers, Aaron Myers, Madeleine Lebovitz, Bram Lebovitz, and Ava Lebovitz.

She also leaves many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews and was predeceased by her parents, sister-in-law: Eileen Myers Matthews, and brother- in-law: James Ryder.

Relatives and friends are warmly welcome to attend visitation on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm in the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI.

The funeral will be held from the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 8:30 am followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 am at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 141 State Street, Bristol, Rhode Island.

Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol, RI.

Following cemetery services an invitation will be extended to join the family for a time of continued fellowship and refreshments at a location to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in her name may be made to the Santina Pagano Myers Memorial Fund at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School in Bristol.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit an online guest book at www.sansonefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809. (401) 253-7110

View Santina Pagano Myers's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.