Domenico "Mimi" DeBellis

Domenico DeBellis was born on June 24, 1935, in his cherished town of Castelnuovo Parano, Italy, and died on July 22, 2022, surrounded by his loving family in his beloved town where he spent his whole life.

"Mimi", as he was affectionately known, lived a wonderful and full life. He and his wife Giuseppina ran a deli and mini market right smack in the middle of Castelnuovo Parano. They were famous for their delicious “paninos” and fresh top-notch products. Beachgoers in the summer would make it a point to stop there.

Mimi was also the manager of a “Consorzio” which was a Distributor of Agricultural products and farm equipment. Mimi was most famous for politics. He was involved in local politics from a young age, and served in many capacities, including as a member of the national health board. He was also a loyal member of the Christian Democratic Party. On one of his many trips to Rhode Island, Mimi was honored with a decree at the Rhode Island State House for many of his years of service.

Domenico enjoyed his many trips to the United States and traveling with his grandchildren, Eduarda and Camilla. Mimi, his daughter Stella, his wife Giuseppina, his son-in-law Luigi, and Eduarda and Camilla took many trips together. They went to Disney World in Florida multiple times, they celebrated the 4th of July in Washington DC, many trips to New York, and a visit to Windsor, Canada together to visit family and friends. Mimi also took a trip to Las Vegas with the late Angelo Macera which he enjoyed very much.

Above all Mimi was about family. He was the backbone of his family and carried forward many traditions and cemented a close-knit union among his family members. Domenico enjoyed sitting around the family table entertaining guests and enjoying good food, good wine, a glass of whiskey, and a rendition of “Oh Marie” to top it off. It seemed like his table had no bounds and it could fit as many people as he wanted to sit there.

Domenico was a gentleman’s gentleman. He was seldom without a tie and always wore one of his many hats. Mimi’s door was open to everyone even for a quick nightcap or a late night “spagettata”.

Mimi is survived by his wife, Giuseppina who he was married for 65 years. He is also survived by his 3 children: Oreste DeBellis and his wife Maria Rosaria, Maria Grazia DeBellis and her husband Carlo DiMurro, and Stella DeBellis and her husband Luigi Macera. He is also survived by his beloved 6 grandchildren: Domenico DeBellis, Andrea DeBellis, Luca DiMurro, Emanuela DiMurro, Eduarda Macera, and Camilla Macera. He also leaves behind his four beautiful great-grandchildren: Miriam DeBellis, Oreste DeBellis, Elena DeBellis, and Lorenzo DeBellis. Domenico was predeceased by his sister Antonietta DeBellis and brother-in-law Franco Macera.

Domenico lived a long and full life surrounded by the joy and love of his family. He will be missed by all who knew him and leaves a deep void in all who loved him.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Rocco Church, 927 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, on Wednesday, August 3 at 7 PM. All are welcome to attend. 

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