Frances D'Angelo

D'ANGELO, MISS FRANCES C., 97, of Old County Road, Smithfield died on March 16, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of the late Carmelo and Marianna (Campagna) D'Angelo.

Frances started to work in the Smithfield School System as a classroom teacher in the Esmond School in September 1940. Two years later she was transferred to the Irving S. Cook School as a teaching Principal. After five years she was appointed Music Supervisor and Music teacher in grades 1 through 8 and in the high school general choral class in grades 9 through 12 which was held in the hallway of the Esmond School once a week.

In 1951 the Junior High School opened and Frances was appointed teaching Principal at the Irving S. Cook School. She held that position until 1968. Frances was then appointed as supervising Principal of the Raymond C. LaPerche School where she remained until she retired in 1985.

During the years of her dedication to education, Miss D'Angelo worked hard to improve the education in the Smithfield School System. She attended many conferences and workshops for that purpose both in Town, in the State and out of the State. She was responsible for introducing and implementing a new reading program in which every child could progress at his/her own rate and speed of learning. Frances's whole life was dedicated to teaching. She knew all her students and was admired by many of them.

Frances was a dedicated and loyal parishioner of St. Michael's parish. She spent many years in service to her Church as teacher, member of planning committees, summer programs and finally as Parish Organist and Choir Director. After retirement she served as a volunteer both in the school department and at St. Michael's Church.

In 2007 Frances was inducted into the Smithfield Heritage Hall of Fame. A loving educator, parishioner and devoted family member she is survived by her brother Albert, 19 nieces and nephews, 26 great nieces and nephews and 11 great-great nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Frank, James, Antonio, Alfred and Edward D'Angelo.

Her funeral will be held Tuesday at 9AM from the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave. North Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM in St. Michael Church, Smithfield. Burial will be at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence. Calling hours Monday 4-8PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in her name to St. Michael's Church 80 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917 would be appreciated.