John Francis Lonergan

John Francis Lonergan, 85, of Narragansett, passed away at his home Sunday August 7, 2011. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen (Schnell) Lonergan, with whom he just celebrated his 63rd anniversary. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Thomas and Anne (Conway) Lonergan. John worked as the Grounds Superintendent at Butler Hospital for 29 years before retiring in 1987. He spent his retirement years maintaining a beautiful atmosphere in his yard and backyard greenhouse on Great Island. He enjoyed his winter months in Pompano Beach, where he volunteered at The Debbie Rand Thrift Center. He had previously owned and ran several businesses; a convalescent home in Coventry, Kent Furniture Stripping Center and Greenwood Flower & Garden in Warwick. John was a Navy Veteran who served in WWII. He was a life member of the Tri-City Elks in Warwick and The American Legion Post #2. He leaves his 5 children, Colleen Lautieri and her husband Michael of Warwick, Steven Lonergan and his wife Diane of Ashaway, Daniel Lonergan and his wife Patricia of West Greenwich, Gary Lonergan of Warwick, and Kerry Silvia and her husband Thomas of Warwick. He was the proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He leaves his sister Nancy Harrop of West Warwick, and several in laws, nieces, nephews and cherished friends. He was the brother of the late Mary Kessler and Joseph Lonergan. For the many that knew and loved him, John will be remembered for his love and dedication to his family, his yard and his many friends; his smile, laughter and beautiful blues eyes; and his incredible strength and wisdom. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10:00 a.m. in the Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea Church, 864 Pt. Judith Road, Narragansett. Burial will be private and visiting hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers gifts in his memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 931 Jefferson Boulevard, Suite 3004, Warwick, RI 02886 will be appreciated.