Sansone Funeral Home

12/02/2025

Santo G. Bernardo

Santo G. Bernardo, 65, of Bristol passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at Newport Hospital. He was the son of the late Ralph and Emilia (Bucolo) Bernardo.

Santo worked as a car salesman for many years. On his free time he enjoyed playing cards, golfing, and was an avid sports fan.

He is survived by his siblings: Victoria Bernardo-Hill and Ralph A. Bernardo (Andrea); his nieces and nephews: Annabel Silverstrin (Jerad), Ralph A. Bernardo, III, Patrick Bernardo, Thomas Hill, Emilia Hill, Cristina Marino; his brother-in-law: Scott Marino; and many extended relatives and friends.

Santo was pre-deceased by his parents Ralph and Emilia and his sister Amy Marino.

A Visiting Hour will be held at Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol on Friday, December 5, 2025 from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 141 State Street, Bristol at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private.

View Santo G. Bernardo's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/26/2025

Ann D'Amico

Ann D D’Amico (nee Calderiso), 89, passed away on November 13, 2025 at Brookdale Sakonnet Bay. She was the widow of the late Paul A D’Amico Sr. A longtime resident of Bristol; she was born in Fall River, MA.

Ann dedicated her life to education. While she retired after 35 years from the Bristol-Warren School system; she continued to substitute for another 10 years. This meant that at times she taught 3 generations within the same family. Most of her time in the system was spent teaching 6th grade reading at Guiteras School. Ann was also devoted to her faith; she was a member of the Children of Mary and Holy Rosary Society at Mt Carmel Church.

Ann is survived by her 3 children: Paul D’Amico Jr, Michele D’Amico and Bethany D’Amico Stutts; 4 grandchildren: Rachel Goodrow, Joseph Stutts and his wife Cassandra Ares, Andrew Stutts and his significant other Taylor Donovan, and Paul III; and 4 great-grandchildren: Parker, Theo, Freya and Cash. She is also survived by her sisters: Joann Mancini and her husband Paul of Cranston, RI and Kathleen Cardoza and her husband Harold of Tiverton, RI.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 141 State Street, Bristol. She will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ann’s name to the Our Lady of Mt Carmel School Scholarship Fund or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.

View Ann D'Amico's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/18/2025

Patricia Ann Prendergast

Patricia “Pat’ Pendergast’s vibrant life was cut short on November 14, 2025. She was 77 years old.

Pat is survived by her beloved husband of 58 years Tom, her two children and their spouses Patrick (Jennifer) Prendergast and Erin (Rob) Tetreault, and the absolute loves of her life, her grandchildren Nora (Prendergast), Jack, and Brody (Tetreault). The daughter of Mary and Michael Benoit whom she cherished, she also leaves behind her sister Sandra (Dan) Cunningham, as well as many beloved sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Pat spent most of her life in Rhode Island, the last 45 years of which were in Bristol. It’s often said that you are only a true Bristolian if you were born there, but by all accounts, Pat was born to live in Bristol. She loved it. Whether it be her home and neighborhood on Jane Lane, her long walks in C**t State Park, dinner out with her many friends like Elaine and Debbie, or her long time job at Coastal Chiropractic Center - it was where she was meant and always wanted to be.

Full of energy with a zest for fun, Pat caught the travel bug later in life and enjoyed many trips with Tom and friends to various parts of the US, Caribbean, and Europe. But her favorite trips were when her family, children and grandchildren, could join them. So many great memories were made, and we are so grateful to have them now.

Above all Pat was so very proud to be grandmother to Nora, Jack, and Brody. She would do anything for them, spoiled them rotten, and loved them beyond measure. She would like them to remember that what happened at Grandma’s/Nama’s stays at Grandma’s/Nama’s and if they ever want to connect with her, just look up to the sky and tell her three good things. She will be there ready to listen.

If you were lucky enough to know or even meet Pat, she would welcome you into her home, gatherings, and family with open arms. She was so very caring and always went above and beyond for her friends and family who needed help or even just a little kindness. Her family will do their very best to make sure her beautiful legacy of kindness continues.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, November 25 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, Rhode Island. She will be laid to rest at The Cremation Garden at North Burial Ground, Hope Street, Bristol. If you would like to honor Pat, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St, Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

View Patricia Ann Prendergast's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/10/2025

Joseph Nunes

Joseph Nunes, 70, passed away at his home on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was the devoted father of Michelle Elks (Dustin) and the loving companion of Debbie Ross for over 30 years before his passing.

Born on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores, Portugal, he was the son of the late Jose and Alice (Ferreira) Nunes

Joseph, was a hardworking man who spent his career in concrete, helping to build bridges and structures that will stand for generations. A lifelong biker, Joe found freedom on the open road, especially on his Harley-Davidson, where he felt most at peace. For him, riding wasn’t just about the bike but also about the wind on his face, the open sky ahead, and the sense of connection that comes from being part of a community that knows what it means to live freely and fully.

For nearly 35 years, Joe shared his life with his partner, Deb. Through sickness and health, ups and downs, they stood by each other’s side. Deb lovingly cared for Joe and was always there for him, especially in recent years. Together, they shared countless good times and simple moments that meant the world to them both. Their love and devotion were constant in each other’s lives.

Joe was close to his only brother, John. They shared a lifelong bond built on love and loyalty. No matter what life brought their way, they stood by each other time after time. Their relationship was filled with support and the kind of unspoken understanding that only brothers share.

Joe was the kind of person who never met a stranger. He was outgoing, friendly, and always ready to strike up a conversation. Over the years, he had many close friendships and cared deeply for the people in his life. His friends meant a great deal to him, and he valued those connections as much as family.

Above all, Joe was a devoted father and an incredibly proud grandfather. He was deeply proud of his only child, Michelle, and the life she built. Even though they lived far away from each other, their bond remained strong and loving. He was endlessly proud of Michelle and her family. His grandson, Emmett, was the light of his life. Joe never missed a chance to talk about how proud he was of them and how much he loved them.

Joe’s kindness and love will live on through his family and friends. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

May he ride free forever.

Joe was pre-deceased by his parents: Jose and Alice; and his nephew: Justin M. Nunes.

In addition to his daughter Michelle (Dustin) and his companion Debbie, Joe also leaves behind his grandchild Emmett R. Elks; his brother: John P. Nunes (Sandra Durand); and many extended relatives and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Chrisitan Burial at 10 AM at St. Elizabeth’s Church, 577 Wood Street, Bristol on November 15th, 2025. Visiting Hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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11/01/2025

Seraphin "Fee" DaPonte

Seraphin “Fee” DaPonte, a lifelong resident of Bristol, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his beloved wife and devoted family. He was the cherished husband of Marjorie (Gardiner) DaPonte, with whom he had just celebrated 70 wonderful years of marriage this past September.

Fee was a proud father to Mary Caron (Don), Seraphin (Celeste Berry), Kathy Floor (Adam), Michael (Susan Cabral), and Carol Castigliego (Bruce). His love for family was the foundation of his life.

Born on July 24, 1934, to Georgina (Almeida) and Serafim DaPonte, Fee was raised on the Perry Plat. He began his working life running the family’s poultry farm and delivery business, a humble beginning where he developed his strong work ethic. In 1969, alongside his wife Marge, he founded DaPonte’s Landscaping, a business that became a trusted and enduring part of the East Bay community. Fee took immense pride in his work and retired (he would say “never!”), comforted by the knowledge that his children and grandchildren would carry on his legacy. He was born, lived, and worked on the same land for his entire life.

A proud Bristolian, Fee was honored to be selected as the 202nd Chief Marshal of the Bristol Fourth of July Parade (1987). July 4th was his favorite day of the year, and he could always be found on High Street at his son’s home, often stopping the parade to greet marchers with handshakes and hugs. Fee truly embodied the spirit of the celebration and the “American Dream”.

Fee and Marge were worldwide travelers. They shared their love of travel with their children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories including family adventures in Florida and milestone anniversary trips to both Bermuda (50th) and the Bahamas (60th).

He spent many winters in Punta Gorda, Florida, where he enjoyed golfing with his buddies and playing cards with Marge and their many friends and visitors. He brought his boat from Bristol to Florida so he could share his love of the ocean with his friends in both locations. His welcoming warmth, humor, and good-natured ribbing made him a beloved friend to many.

Becoming a “Papa” was one of Fee’s greatest joys. He is survived by nine grandchildren and their spouses, and six great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. His legacy will continue through their laughter, stories, and demands for golf-cart rides.

Fee was predeceased by his siblings: Manuel, Mary, Joseph and Georgina.

The DaPonte family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Fee’s caregivers for their compassion and dedication, especially Dr. Paul Agatiello, whose kindness and expertise brought comfort and peace during his final days.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday November 6 at 10am, St. Mary’s Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, Rhode Island. He will be laid to rest at North Burial Ground, Hope Street, Bristol. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

The family requests that you kindly omit flowers. In lieu, we would greatly appreciate donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

View Seraphin "Fee" DaPonte's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/21/2025

Sansone Funeral Home Daily Grief Support Email

"When one person is missing the whole world seems empty."

- Pat Schweibert, Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss

We never think about how our life is a careful balance. Everyone with whom we interact regularly plays a part in creating our world, a web of people who make us feel comfortable, safe, and loved. When we lose an integral part of that web, we feel lost. The balance is upset, and we feel like we will topple over from the grief and the uncertainty of this terrible change. You may feel like things are "out of whack" for a long time. That is normal. Over the next months and years, you will be able to methodically reset the balance, so that you return to a feeling of normalcy. Know that you are resilient and that you can make it through this unbalanced period of your life.

10/20/2025

Sansone Funeral Home Daily Grief Support Email

Friendship doubles our joy and divides our grief.

- Swedish Proverb

Many times when people grieve, their first instinct is to isolate themselves from others. You may need to cry, or to just sit in silent reflection as you continue to try to process what has happened. However, in conjunction with your personal grieving, it is often beneficial to take the time to talk about your sadness with people you trust. Having a friend, support group, or counselor can make a tremendous difference as you try to re-assimilate to the life you led before this tragedy. Being able to talk and to listen to the advice and stories of others helps you to reconnect. Isolating yourself is easy, but it shows great courage and fortitude to share these vulnerabilities with others. Take a chance and talk about what you are going through...you'll be glad you did.

10/19/2025

Happy 250th Anniversary

10/19/2025

Sansone Funeral Home Daily Grief Support Email

Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.

~ Anonymous

People talk about the importance of memories when you have had a loss. It is true that they are often referred to as treasured, and that is an accurate description. Yet, our memories can also evoke the most pain when the loss is still fresh in our minds. Trying to find the balance between the happiness and sadness of our memories is one of the hardest parts of grieving as time passes. You want to look at photographs, watch home videos, or read letters to keep your connection to your loved one fresh. At the same time, these items can also be difficult reminders of the acute pain you are feeling as you adjust to the loss.

The key is to find the balance that is best for you. The answer for each person is different. For some, looking at such images, crying for a few minutes, and then moving on is cathartic. For others, it is too hard to see them at this point. Follow your gut instinct when deciding whether you are ready to look at concrete images of your loved one. If you have to turn over a photograph to help heal, then that is what you should do. Continue to be patient with yourself, and do what feels right. Most importantly, know that the way you grieve should be personal, and that there is no "best" way to work through the process.

10/18/2025

Sansone Funeral Home Daily Grief Support Email

"Everyone grieves in different ways. For some, it could take longer or shorter. I do know it never disappears. An ember still smolders inside me. Most days, I don't notice it, but, out of the blue, it'll flare to life."

- Maria V. Snyder, Storm Glass

When grief is your every day, it's hard to imagine not having that weight on your shoulders. It's hard to fathom that there is even the possibility of a life without it. However, as it fades and your hope builds of a life free of that constant sorrow, know that there will be flare-ups. There will be a little reminder that brings it all flooding back.

The good news is that the reminders are not permanent. They will startle you, but then fade away. These bonds do not break, but the level of intensity softens over time, allowing you to slowly move forward.

10/17/2025

Sansone Funeral Home Daily Grief Support Email

"Youth offers the promise of happiness, but life offers the realities of grief."

- Nicholas Sparks, The Rescue

No matter your age or your background, the process of grief is the last step in truly growing up. Your life before loss was one of a kind of childlike innocence compared to the life you have now.

However, it is not without hope or value. The love and understanding you can bring to others has a depth and intensity unlike any other. Your appreciation for life and its joys makes you a richer, stronger person.

This does not happen overnight. This depth of character builds in conjunction with your grief process. It is the phoenix rising from the pain of loss. Use this gift to enhance the lives of those around you.

10/16/2025