November 04, 2019
Joseph V. DeStefano ’52; Faithful Friar recipient, former NAA Council member
Joseph V. DeStefano ’52 of Providence, R.I., a Faithful Friar Award recipient and former member of PC’s National Alumni Association Council, died July 13, 2019.
Mr. DeStefano remained active in the PC community throughout his life. As an undergraduate, he was a member of the Friars’ basketball team and received a bachelor’s degree in education in 1952.
He returned to campus for many events over the years, including class phona-thons, athletics events, homecomings, and reunions, frequently serving his class reunion committee.
Additionally, Mr. DeStefano was a member of the National Alumni Association Council from 2003-2006. The NAA awarded him its Faithful Friar Award, recognizing his long-time dedication, loyalty, and service to PC.
Mr. DeStefano served in the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant of the 348th Harborcraft Division during World War II. During his years in the Army, he was stationed in Alaska and the South Pacific. He enrolled at PC following his discharge and went on to a long career in education.
Mr. DeStefano spent 38 years with Providence Public Schools, holding posts as a teacher, guidance counselor, and administrator, and retiring as principal of Central High School. He also worked for the Providence Recreation Department for 27 years and was a registered social worker.
In addition to those roles, Mr. DeStefano was a dedicated volunteer with the Narragansett Council Boy Scouts of America for more than 50 years. He served as chairperson of the “Scouting for Food: Good Turn Drive” for 31 years and was a member of both the Rhode Island Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting and the National Catholic Committee on Scouting.
In retirement, Mr. DeStefano served as secretary of the Rhode Island Assocation of Retired Principals and was inducted into the Wanskuck Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame in 1986.
Mr. DeStefano is survived by his wife, Mary “Betty” (Becker) DeStefano; six children, including Diane P. (DeStefano) Duffy ’85 and her husband, Peter Duffy ’84; four grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
His Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on July 20 at St. Augustine Church, Providence. Burial with military honors was in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston.
