Joseph H. Esposito

Joseph H Esposito, of Cranston, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born in Providence, Rhode Island, the son of the late Joseph Esposito and Pasqualina Del Rossi.

He lived a full life shaped by creativity, resilience, and determination. He was, at his core, an artist. Everything he touched reflected that — the way he worked, the way he created, and the way he spent his days, always seeing the world through an artist’s eye.

Though his path was unconventional, his talent was undeniable. That gift earned him a full scholarship to the Rhode Island School of Design, where he deepened a passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

He was a devoted husband of 60 years to the late Elsie Alice Esposito, the love of his life. Their life together was the heart of everything he held dear. He was a proud father of nine children, fourteen grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren — a legacy that meant the world to him. He especially cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless joy.

He was a talented artisan, sculptor, designer, and model maker who owned and operated a jewelry manufacturing company before going on to work for Swarovski Crystal. His work lives on in the crystal figurines and jewelry he created, which continue to be collected and admired around the world.

Even in later years, he never stopped creating, often spending time whittling hand-carved canes. Though his hands were worn from years of artistry and his vision was fading, he continued carving and sketching whenever he could.

He is survived by his children, Dennis Caldarone and his partner Earnestine Vota, Victor Caldarone and his wife Beth, Marylynn Bianco, Jodi Martineau, Barbara Capobianco and her husband Jack, Gina Esposito, Alice Esposito and her partner Jerrold Robins, Joseph Esposito Jr. and his wife Karen, and John Esposito; his sister Dorothy Dionne; as well as his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Jennifer Capobianco.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Cedars in Cranston for the outstanding care and love they provided, and for encouraging and supporting his artistry during his time there. Their kindness brought him great comfort and pride.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

His visitation will be held Monday, March 23, from 4pm until 7pm in the "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Ave., Cranston. His funeral will be held at 9am on Tuesday, March 24, from the "WOODLAWN" Funeral Home with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10am in St. Mary's Church, Cranston. Burial will follow at St. Ann Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Please share memories and condolences at www.WoodlawnRI.com.

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