Vincent A. Mattera, 86, of Concord Street, Greenville, died Saturday December 5th in the Morgan Health Center in Johnston. He was the husband of the late Carolyn Mattera. They had been married for 60 wonderful years.
Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Joseph and Angelina (Scungio) Mattera. He had lived in Greenville since 1965.
Vincent was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He had enjoyed working with children in the town of Smithfield’s sports programs and any activity that he could lend a hand. His greatest joy was his cherished grandchildren, watching them during their sporting events and supporting them no matter the outcome of their games. Education was important to him and he preached a good educational foundation; he always pushed his children and grandchildren to continue school and get good grades. His love of family was endless. Vin was known to take a seat at the Smithfield Ice Rink and watch a youth hockey game of children he did not even know, he just loved watching kids play.
Vincent grew up in South Kingston and graduated from South Kingston High School. He then attended New England Institute and had obtained his embalming license. He had honorably served his country in the U. S. Army during the Korean War. After returning home he was employed by the State of Rhode Island for over 30 years.
Vincent was instrumental in the building of the Smithfield Ice Rink and established the first girls’ basketball and softball leagues in the Town of Smithfield. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the former Smithfield Boys and Girls Club. He was a coach with the Smithfield Raiders and Redskins youth football league, a member of the Smithfield High School Booster Club and a member of St. Philip Church and its Men’s Club. He was known for his famous pasta suppers during blood drives and fundraisers. His endless love and his faith helped so many.
He is survived by his children Joseph V. Mattera, Retired Captain GPD of Burrillville and Roseann Mattera Mandarini of Greenville, his grandchildren: Corinne Mattera Gelinas, Daniel Mattera, Nicole and Giovanna Mandarini. He was the brother of the late Anna D. Mattera.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Vincent, and his wife Carolyn, who died on April 19, 2020 will be held on Friday December 11th at 9:30am in St. Philip Church, 622 Putnam Pike, Greenville. Limited seating, social distancing with a face covering will be required in church. A private burial with military honors will be in St. Francis Cemetery, Wakefield. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to the Village at Waterman Lake, The Lodge Activities Fund, c/o Jessica Frisone, 715 Putnam Pike, Smithfield, RI 02828.