Richard E. Martin

Richard E. Martin, 73, of North Smithfield, RI passed away peacefully with family by his side on April 13, 2023 at the Hope Hospice & Palliative Care in Providence, RI. For nearly five years he bravely fought a heroic battle against Dementia. Throughout that entire time, he always maintained his trademark cheerfulness and upbeat demeanor. Born in North Smithfield, he was the son of the late Edward and Shirley (Nelson) Martin. He was the husband of Diane (Labonte) Martin.

Richard was the owner and operator of R.E. Martin Construction for over 45 years. He enjoyed wood working in his free time. You would often find him making shaker boxes and other projects in his workshop. Sometimes he could even be found in his wife’s kitchen making his trademark apple pie. Richard could also be seen walking his beloved dog, Lila around the neighborhood several times a day. Above all else, Richard wanted to be known as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He took Diane to the prom and was lovingly married to her for over 51 years. He would then spend many summers coaching his daughter’s softball team. Once his grandchildren were born, he frequently joined them on family vacations and special outings. This included Pack 7 Slatersville campouts and the Junior Rifle program at Smithfield Sportsman’s Club on Friday evenings. Richard also loved spending time with his close group of friends participating in many themed parties. These always came complete with crazy costumes, decorations and lots of laughs.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Lorie Charron her husband David, three grandchildren, Matthew, Nathan,and Abigail Goudreau, also his brother, Wayne and his wife, Diane and their daughters, Kimberly and Melissa. He also leaves behind a large group of close friends and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, David Martin, Karen Hopkins and Anne Martin.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Keene-Brown Funeral Home, 445 Greenville Rd., North Smithfield. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 4 – 7 PM. Funeral will be on April 20, 2023 at 10 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John’s Church, North Smithfield at 11 AM. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

We would like to thank the staff at PACE Rhode Island, Landmark Medical Hospital and The Hope Hospice & Palliative Care Center for their dedication in their caring of Richard.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Richard to The Alzheimer’s Association by visiting https://www.alz.org/about?form=alz_donate. You can also make a donation to The Hope Hospice & Palliative Care Center at https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/donate-to-hopehealth-hospice-palliative-care/.

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