Ronald Barry

Ronald “Ron” Barry, 77, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2025. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Ron was the beloved son of the late Wilfred Barry and Doris Wilkinson.

A lifelong resident of Rhode Island, Ron grew up in Pawtucket and proudly served in the United States Army from 1967 to 1971, earning an honorable discharge as a Vietnam Veteran. Over the years, he enjoyed living in Rhode Island, New York, South Carolina, and Florida, ultimately returning to Rhode Island where he spent his final years surrounded by family and friends.

Ron was known for his big heart, easy laugh, and unmistakable dimples. Always the life of the party, he loved to ride his motorcycle, sing and dance, especially to the oldies, and never passed up a chance to show off his yo-yo tricks or his favorite Elvis Presley tunes. Whether he was fishing, swimming, playing horseshoes, or captaining one of his beloved boats, “Captain Ron” brought joy and laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by his loving siblings, Tony Ferrao Jr., Nancy Taylor (Gilbert), Doris “Petie” Barry (Roy Smith), and was predeceased by his brother Wilfred “Chuck” Barry. His former wife Janice Barry Croteau and brothers-in-law, Edmond Cardarelli and Arnold Gonsalves.

Ron will be dearly missed by his children, Ronald Barry and his wife Amy, Darlene Jones and her husband Erskine “Cleo”, Sarah Barry and her partner Leroy Heggie and Brad McNulty. He was a proud grandfather to Ronnie Jr. (Ashley), Nicholas Barry (Holly), Ryan Barry, Ariana Jones, Isaiah, Xavier, Zaeda Heggie, and Michael Gill. He also leaves behind one great-grandchild, Callan Craig Barry, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who loved him dearly.

To those who knew him best, Ron was more than a father, grandfather, and brother, he was a friend, a flirt, a storyteller, and a bright light whose spirit will live on in the hearts of many. You could always spot him by his orange shirt or silly hat, his smile shining as brightly as his personality.

A burial with military honors will be held at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery on November 7 at 11:00 AM, family and friends are invited to attend. In honor of Ron, a reception will follow at 1:00 PM at the Elks Lodge, 887 South Main Street, Attleboro, Massachusetts.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has reached out with love, prayers, food, hugs, and shared memories during this difficult time. Your kindness has brought great comfort and we love you all. 

Captain Ron is now at peace and as he would want us to remember him, with a smile and a song:

“Take my hand, take my whole life too,
But I can’t help falling in love with you.”
— Elvis Presley

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