John E. Unsworth, Sr., 88, Retired Chief, EPFD

John E. Unsworth, Sr. ( Chief, E.P.F.D., Ret.) 88, of Villa at St. Antoine, North Smithfield and a former long-time resident of East Providence, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 5 at Rhode Island Hospital, according to Perry-McStay Funeral Home.  

He was the husband of the late Harriett M. (Williamson) Unsworth and the late Myra E. (Rowe) Unsworth.  Born in East Providence, he was a son of the late William H. and Elizabeth A. (Riley) Unsworth.  

Unsworth was a firefighter for the East Providence Fire Department for 30 years, serving as the Chief for his last four years of service. After retiring from the Fire Department, he worked for the Gilbane Corporation as a Safety Engineer.  He was a member of the Rhode Island, New England and Massachusetts Association of Fire Chiefs and the East Providence Police & Fire Retiree’s Association.  He was a World War II veteran, serving in the Navy and the Pacific Theater and was a member of the American Legion, Post 10 Riverside.  

Unsworth was a lifelong Catholic who was devoted to his work for the church. He leaves three daughters, Patricia A. Stevens of Overland Park, Kansas, Christine M. Unsworth of Lincoln and Janet E. Ross of Medway, MA., two sons, Rev. John E. Unsworth, Jr., Pastor, St. Bernard Church, Wickford and Michael F. Unsworth of Cranston, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren and one great great granddaughter.  He was the grandfather of the late Eric Gouveia and brother of the late William H. Unsworth, Jr. and Joseph Myette. 

His funeral was Wednesday, 10 a.m., from the Perry-McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Margaret’s Church, Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford. Burial was in Mt. St. Mary’s Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers contributions to Emmanuel House Homeless Shelter, 239 Public St., Providence, RI 02903 would be appreciated.