2026 -- H 7511

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LC004628

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF DELORES (RAVO) MELILLO

     Introduced By: Representatives Paplauskas, Chippendale, Blazejewski, Potter, Fascia,
Quattrocchi, Solomon, Bennett, Handy, and McNamara

     Date Introduced: February 05, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, It is with deep sadness and solemn respect that this House has learned of the

passing of Delores (Ravo) Melillo of Cranston on January 22, 2026, at the age of eighty-seven;

and

     WHEREAS, Born in Providence, Mrs. Melillo was the beloved wife of the late Anthony

R. Melillo and the daughter of the late Joseph and Angelina (DeMechele) Ravo. A woman of

integrity, strength, and quiet determination, she dedicated many years of her professional life as

an assembler at Quill Pen, where she was known for her strong work ethic and steadfast

commitment before retiring; and

     WHEREAS, Above all else, Delores Melillo was devoted to her family. She found her

greatest joy in the warmth of her home and was widely known for her love of cooking and the

care with which she hosted family and friends. Her Sunday dinners, particularly during the

summer months by her pool, were cherished gatherings where laughter, storytelling, and lasting

memories were made; and

     WHEREAS, A woman who embraced life’s simple pleasures, Delores delighted in days

spent at the beach, Saturday evening outings, and memorable trips to Atlantic City with her

husband, Anthony. Whether through a lovingly prepared meal or a shared glass of wine, she had a

gift for making ordinary moments feel special; and

     WHEREAS, Delores Melillo leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, family, and service.

She is survived by her children, Lorna Belanger and her husband, Edward, and Anthony J.

Melillo and his wife, Elena, all of Cranston. Her son, Anthony J. Melillo, serves the City of

Cranston with distinction as Vice Chairman of the Cranston School Committee, and whose

commitment to public service reflects the values instilled in him by his proud mother; and

     WHEREAS, Delores was the cherished and devoted grandmother of Melissa Petrocchi

and her husband, Anthony, Nicholas Belanger and his wife, Nicole, Alison Melillo, Abigail

Melillo, and Vanessa Varone; and the adored great-grandmother of Luca and Amelia Petrocchi,

all of whom were the pride and joy of her life and the fortunate recipients of her boundless love

and wisdom; and

     WHEREAS, Mrs. Melillo also leaves behind her sister, Joann Ravo of Johnston, her

special niece, ToniAnn Salzillo, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and

friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, generosity, and grace; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

extends its deepest condolences to the Melillo family on the passing of Delores (Ravo) Melillo,

honoring her life, her legacy, and the enduring impact she leaves on all who knew and loved her;

and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to the family of Delores (Ravo) Melillo.

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LC004628

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