David W. Varone, a respected architect and beloved community leader, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, following a courageous four-month battle with heart-related illness. The 18-year veteran university architect and senior project manager was 67 years old at the time of his death. Family members described his heart as "simply too big and beautiful for this world," reflecting his lifelong dedication to service and compassion.
Born in Reading, Pennsylvania, and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island, Varone demonstrated academic excellence from an early age. He graduated from Bishop Hendricken High School before pursuing his passion for architecture at the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where he earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree. Later expanding his expertise into business management, he obtained his Master's in Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University (JWU), combining creative vision with practical business acumen.
Varone's distinguished architectural career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on Rhode Island's landscape. He began his professional journey at Ira Rakatansky, Inc. Architects, where he honed his design skills and developed his architectural philosophy. His most significant role came when he served as University Architect at Johnson & Wales University for 18 years, during which he played an integral role in shaping the campus infrastructure and creating educational environments that would serve thousands of students.
In his final professional role, Varone served as Senior Project Manager at Cushman & Wakefield for nine years, where he oversaw numerous high-profile and impactful construction projects throughout Rhode Island. His crowning professional achievement was leading the construction of the Citizens Bank headquarters in Johnston, Rhode Island, a project he considered his most exciting accomplishment. The building stands as a testament to his architectural vision and project management expertise.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Varone was deeply committed to community service and philanthropy throughout his life. In his earlier years, he actively coached youth sports for his sons, demonstrating his dedication to mentoring young people and supporting community athletics. He was a regular volunteer for various community activities and maintained a consistent record as a blood donor, quietly contributing to public health initiatives. His philanthropic spirit extended to participation in several charitable initiatives that benefited communities both locally and internationally.
Varone's most significant long-term charitable commitment was his 14-year service as a board member of Caritas Smile, an organization dedicated to bringing joy and essential resources to communities in need. Through this role, he helped coordinate efforts that impacted communities both locally in Rhode Island and internationally in the Dominican Republic. His work with Caritas Smile exemplified his belief in using his skills and resources to improve the lives of others, particularly those facing economic hardships.
Those who knew Varone personally remember him as a man of extraordinary character who performed countless random acts of kindness without ever seeking recognition or praise. His generous and humble nature was evident in quiet gestures that brightened the lives of friends, colleagues, and strangers alike. Known throughout his community for his natural charm, unwavering kindness, and ever-present smile, Varone embodied the qualities of a true gentleman in both his personal and professional interactions.
Varone enjoyed life's finer pleasures with the same thoughtfulness he brought to his work and service. He was known to appreciate a fine cigar and a perfectly crafted martini, often sharing these moments with loved ones and friends. Whether he was volunteering his time for community causes, sharing laughter and conversation with friends, or simply being present when someone needed assistance, Varone lived a life fundamentally defined by service, integrity, and genuine care for others.
Varone is survived by his life partner, Sixcia Devine, and her son, John Daniel Devine, who became an integral part of his extended family. He leaves behind his beloved son Nicholas A. Varone, while being preceded in death by his son Michael T. Varone. His surviving family also includes his mother, Janice (Pezzullo) Varone, while his father, Richard T. Varone, preceded him in death. His three sisters—Allison Johnson, Kristin Sorensen (married to David Sorensen), and Tracey MacEachern (married to David MacEachern)—along with his cherished nieces and nephews, will continue to honor his memory.
The impact of Varone's life and work extended far beyond his immediate family, touching countless lives across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and beyond through his professional projects, community service, and personal relationships. Funeral arrangements have been coordinated through Nardolillo Funeral Home in Cranston, Rhode Island. Visitation will be held on September 9th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, providing an opportunity for the community to pay their respects. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on September 10th at 10:00 AM at Holy Apostles Church in Cranston, with burial taking place at St. Ann Cemetery, also in Cranston.
In keeping with Varone's lifelong commitment to charitable work, the family has requested that donations be made to Caritas Smile in lieu of flowers. Contributions can be made through the organization's website at www.caritasmile.org/donate, ensuring that his legacy of kindness and service to communities in need will continue to make a positive impact long after his passing.
