Sergeant Ralph E. Plamieri, Jr. – Cranston Police

Sergeant Ralph E. Palmieri, Jr.

     Retired CPD sergeant Ralph E. Palmieri, Jr., a lifelong resident of Cranston, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in Providence, R.I., surrounded by his loving family. Born in Providence on May 28, 1959, he was the son of the late Ralph E. Palmieri, Sr. and Beatrice (Parthen) Palmieri. He was the beloved husband of the last 45 years to Andrea (Spires) Palmieri, he lived a life marked by dedication, humor, and a profound love for his family.

     Ralph’s professional career spanned several decades with the City of Cranston. He began his journey in the Parks Department and transitioned to animal control, where he showcased his commitment to public service. His dedication culminated in a distinguished career with the Cranston Police Department. Rising through the ranks, Ralph became a Detective and proudly retiring after 24 years as a Sergeant, leaving a legacy of integrity and respect in the force.   

     An alumnus of Cranston East High School, Ralph was a man of many interests. He possessed an uncanny sense of humor, known for his perfectly timed wit that brought joy and laughter to those around him. His humility endeared him to many, but it was time spent with his family that brought him the greatest joy. Ralph’s happiness radiated in the presence of his grandchildren, whom he adored.

     Ralph was also an avid music lover, with a particular fondness for classic rock. His playlists would often feature bands like Queen, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and the timeless works of Frank Zappa, reflecting his eclectic taste and passion for music.

     Besides his beloved wife he is survived by his son, Ralph E. Palmieri, III and his wife Jacqueline; his daughter, Rhea Palmieri and her husband Jarred; and his cherished grandchildren, Mason Almond, Vienna Palmieri, Willow Almond, Delia Palmieri, Mila Meruvia-Rico, and Israel Meruvia-Rico. Additionally, he leaves behind his sister, Julie A. Iaciofano and her husband Joseph, sister-in-law, Debbie Culotta, and nieces Jamie, Jianna, and Jenna Iaciofano. Ralph also leaves a lasting bond with his cousins Raynia Hemmer, Marsha Crews and several extended cousins, nieces and nephews. 

     Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery.

 

Officer Vito Antonucci – Cranston Police

Vito Antonucci

     Vito Antonucci, 80, formerly of Chepachet, passed away peacefully on February 4th, 2026, at the R.I. Veterans Home in Bristol with his loving family by his side.

     Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Vito “Vic” Antonucci and Mary (Burns) Antonucci.

     Vito grew up in Cranston, graduating from Cranston High School East in 1963. He worked for the former Arrow Transportation Co. before joining the U.S. Army, where he served as a decorated member of the Military Police Platoon of the 25th Infantry Division, proudly serving in the Vietnam war.

     Upon returning from Vietnam, he joined the Cranston Police Department, where he served as a Police Officer until his transition into the corporate world. He was employed as the Transportation / Operations Manager for the former Roger Williams Foods, Wetterau Inc., SuperValu Inc. and McLaughlin and Moran, Inc. He was the vehicle fleet manager for the City of Providence until his retirement in 2016.

     He leaves behind his beloved sons, Stephen Antonucci, Esq. and his wife, Michelle and Kevin Antonucci (Det. Sgt. CPD) and his wife, Rebecca. He was also the proud Papa of Kaitlyn, Stephen Jr., Ryan and Sydney Antonucci, and Jared and Brenna Anderson.

     He was the brother of John Antonucci, Marcia Perfetto, Patricia Iannelli, Joyce Lee, Corrine Alexander, and the late Carole Henry and Cynthia Antonucci. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who were very important to him.

Vito loved being with his family and friends, especially his grandkids. He enjoyed attending sporting events, cooking, and most of all entertaining at his house. Vito was known for his quick wit, his ability to tell a story and no one could hold a grudge like him. He also organized and participated in many charity events and was quick to help anyone in need. Vito was fiercely loyal to his many friends, and he was a huge supporter of law enforcement and the military.

    He’s buried in the RI Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, in Exeter. 

    Rest in Peace. 

The 10-4, February, 2026

To view the February, 2026 10-4 Newsletter, click below. 

Feb 2026 10-4 Newsletter

Detective Jack Hilton, Jr. – Cranston Police

Detective Jack Hilton, Jr.

Detective Jack Hilton, Jr.

     Detective Jack Hilton, Jr. (Badge 173), passed away on January 13, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Linda (DiMascio) Hilton.

     Born in Central Falls, he was the son of the late Jack and Lorraine (Faucher) Hilton, Sr. Jack was a Cranston Police Detective for 25 years before retiring. He also worked 10 years for the Federal Marshal Service and was a US Navy veteran. Jack kayaked whenever he could, climbed Mount Washington with his sons, made memories horseback riding with his daughters at a Dude Ranch in upstate NY, learned to ski later in life on Mt. Killington thanks to his sister and her husband, and enjoyed Florida with his brother and wife. He enjoyed biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail, and together with Linda they traveled some of the world from Alaska and the Caribbean to several countries across Europe. He even rode a Camel in Marocco!

     Besides his wife he was the devoted father of Keith Hilton, Michael Hilton, Brenda Hilton and the late Lori Ann Hilton; loving grandfather of Caitlin, Andrew and Kennedy. He was the dear brother of James Hilton and the late Sandra Houle and Robert Hilton.

     Rest in peace our brother. 

Jack with fellow detectives – 1990s.

 

Officer Thomas J. Fitzgerald – Cranston Police

Off. Thomas J. Fitzgerald

     Former officer Thomas J. Fitzgerald, 53, passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025. He was born on January 8, 1972, in Cranston, RI. He was the son of Patricia (Flynn) Fitzgerald of Cranston, RI and the late Lt. Jay W. Fitzgerald Sr. (CPD).

     A lifelong resident of Cranston, he graduated from Cranston West High School West in 1990, and Roger Williams University in 2019.  Tom spent most of his adult life working in the restaurant industry and was the former co-owner of Fitzpatricks Pub in Cranston.  Tom also served briefly as a member of the Cranston Police Department. Most recently, Tom worked as a substitute teacher in the Providence Public School Department.  

     Tom is survived by his mother, his daughter Veronica, and a brothers Michael, and Jay Fitzgerald, Jr., and a sister Betsy.  He was affectionately known as Uncle T by his nieces, Kaitlyn and Molly Fitzgerald, and his nephew Jay Spina, whom he adored. He also leaves behind an aunt, Janice Quinn, and many cousins whose company he truly enjoyed.

     Tom was the family historian who loved to share his discoveries about the Fitzgerald and Flynn family histories with us all. His love, laughter, and stories will be remembered fondly and missed dearly.