Joseph D. Billington

   Cumberland – Joseph D. Billington, 93, of Cumberland passed away peacefully Sunday, October 15 at home surrounded by his loving family.  He was the beloved husband, for 63 years, of the late Mildred A. (Fortini) Billington.

   Born in Cumberland, on the Lippitt Estate, he was a son of the late Benjamin, a farmer, and Helen, a servant (Alexander) Billington.  He lived in Cumberland most of his life.

   Other than his military service, Mr. Billington worked for one company his entire life.  He was a cabinet maker, craftsman and last owner of The Pohlson Galleries located in Pawtucket and Central Falls, before he retired in 1986.  For the last 11 years he volunteered his time as a Visitor Information Services Staff at the Blackstone Valley State Park Visitor Center in Lincoln.  He enjoyed his grandchildren, great grandchildren and smoking his pipe filled with Dills Best tobacco.

   He was a decorated World War II Army veteran, serving in France.  He is the recipient of the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star and the French Legion of Honor medals.  He was a 70-year member of Cumberland Post #14, American Legion, Cumberland, Rhode Island.

   He is survived by his loving children, Rachel Labrecque and her husband, Roger of St. Augustine, FL, Joseph D. Billington, Jr. and his wife, Mary of Attleboro, MA and Robert D. Billington and his wife, Debra of Central Falls; eight grandchildren; sixteen great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.  He was the brother of the late Ruth Crawford.

   His funeral will be private.  His burial with military honors, will be in Diamond Hill Cemetery, Cumberland.

   Relatives and friends may call at Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln on Wednesday, October 18, 2017 from 4-7 P.M.  In lieu of flowers, a contribution in Mr. Billington’s memory to Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904-9826 is appreciated.  For Directions and Guest Book, please visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com.