JUDITH A. SULLIVAN
RAY RICKMAN
STATE REP BALDELLI-HUNT
TAYLOR ALLISONStatement of Pawtucket Mayor Donald R. Grebien
We have lost one of our state’s truly inspiring leaders, a man without pretense who could so easily relate to Rhode Islanders from all walks of life, just as they related to him.
The famous image of Governor Garrahy in his red plaid flannel shirt keeping everyone calm, including young people like me, during the Blizzard of ’78 and leading by example in a time of crisis has become so enduring because it crystallized the man and his character.
His personal story of being born of Irish immigrants, serving in our nation’s military and going on to hold the state’s highest office has remained an inspiring one for succeeding generations.
In his later years he continued his role of public service in the community, including as a member of the R.I. Cancer Council based in Pawtucket. Our deepest condolences go to his wife, Margherite, and their children and extended family.
