Geraldine "Gerri" (Ribera) Piszcz

Geraldine “Gerri” (Ribera) Piszcz, 82, went home to the Lord on November 6, 2025, her heart as full of grace as the home she created for all who needed comfort. Born in Newport, Rhode Island, on December 5, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Edna (Bidlack) Ribera. Gerri was raised at 16 Third Street in Newport, surrounded by nine siblings. She was the devoted mother of five children and took great pride in their accomplishments and the families they built. Therese Kaplan and her husband Lee of Belleview, FL; Stacy A. Piszcz of North Port, FL; Regina L. Piszcz of Sarasota, FL; Stanley Piszcz III and his wife Stacy of Portsmouth, RI; and Timothy J. Piszcz and his wife Lisa of Tiverton, RI. She was the proud grandmother of eight grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren, and was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Gerri is also survived by her sisters Joyce Semich, Charlotte Gallant, and Joanne Boria. Those who knew Gerri will remember her for her infectious smile and overwhelming laughter, and her unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone she encountered. She had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, feeling included in every family gathering, and leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed her path. Gerri dedicated over 27 years to St. Joseph’s Parish in Newport, where she served as Parish Administrator. She was active in the Catholic Youth Organization since 1976, a confirmation catechist for 10 years, and a 1994 graduate of the Youth Ministry Institute. On a regional level, she supported youth sports, retreats, CCD, and liturgy. Her love of decorating the church at Christmas time and organizing the annual Harvest Fair, the NYC Club trips, brought joy to many. In recognition of her years of service, the Mayor of Newport proclaimed “Gerri Piszcz Day” upon her retirement in 2001. Following retirement, Gerri made her home in Ocala, Florida, where she enjoyed gardening, swimming, reading, listening to music, and spending time with her family and nearby siblings. She was predeceased by her siblings Franklin Ribera, Daniel Ribera, Evelyn Davis, Julia Jackson, Edna Wardwell, and Ronald Ribera. Gerri’s warmth, faith, and compassion touched countless lives. She will be remembered for her generous spirit and the comfort she gave to all who knew her. A Memorial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, 5 Mann Avenue, Newport, RI, on Thursday, December 25, 2025, at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donating to St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Joseph’s Church, Newport, RI.

Geraldine "Gerri" (Ribera) Piszcz

December 5, 1942 - November 6, 2025