Longtime Johnston Senator Frank Lombardo Has Died: Officials

JOHNSTON, RI — Johnston Senator Frank Lombardo died Wednesday morning after a battle with bladder cancer, officials said in a news release.

"Our Senate family is heartbroken with the news that our friend and colleague Frank Lombardo passed away overnight," President of the Senate Dominick J. Ruggerio said in a statement. "Frank was one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever had the good fortune to know. He was a passionate and effective representative of his constituents, and he embodied the spirit of collegiality and service to which every member of the Senate aspires."

Ruggerio added that Lombardo's "dignity and courage in the face of illness was an inspiration."

"He was full of energy and adventure, living every moment of life to the fullest, from helicopter skiing to cross-country motorcycle trips with his father," Ruggerio continued. "We are grateful to have shared part of that adventure with him."

In his own statement, Senate Majority Leader Ryan W. Pearson said that Lombardo "never shied from giving tough feedback or challenging your thinking."

"That same spirit also extended to his adventurous hobbies where he challenged and beat me down every ski mountain he could complete with a lot of commentary about it," Pearson added.

Lombardo was born on July 12, 1958, according to his official biography. He graduated from Smithfield High School before attending Rhode Island College.

First elected to the Senate in November 2010, Lombardo was the senate sponsor of the Small Business Friendliness Omnibus package signed into law in 2018, which eliminated or consolidated numerous business licensing and fee requirements.

He has sponsored legislation to increase transparency and accountability in the state's tax credit programs; require state agencies to develop a plan for electric vehicle charging station infrastructure; provide for the licensing of three-wheeled motorcycles through the DMV; mandate insurance reimbursement for chiropractic and osteopathic non-opioid treatment for pain; extend the life of the Central Landfill as part of the Grow Green Jobs RI plan; and ban the use or sale of powdered alcohol, his official biography notes.

But according to Ruggerio, Lombardo was "first and foremost" dedicated to his family. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, their children Frank and Victoria, and their grandchildren.

In memory of Lombardo, Governor Dan McKee has directed Rhode Island state flags to be flown at half-staff at all state facilities and buildings until sunset on the day of interment.

"I'm devastated to learn about the passing of Senator Frank Lombardo, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones," McKee said. "Senator Lombardo was a dedicated and passionate leader who worked to make Rhode Island a better place for everyone. While his legacy will live on, he will be deeply missed."