Former Rhode Island Gov. Edward DiPrete dies at 91

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Former Rhode Island Gov. Edward DiPrete has died.

Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore confirmed DiPrete’s passing, writing on X: “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Governor Ed DiPrete. My thoughts are with his family and friends as they navigate this difficult time.”

DiPrete died on his 91st birthday.

In a statement, Rhode Island Speaker of the House Joseph Shekarchi said DiPrete was devoted to public service from his time as a member of the Cranston School Committee.

DiPrete also later served as a member of the Cranston City Council, then as mayor of the city.

“His focus on education throughout his career improved the lives of many children,” Shekarchi said in a statement. “I am well acquainted with members of his tight-knit family and he left a legacy of devotion to his children and grandchildren.”    

DiPrete served as governor from 1985-1991 as a Republican.

He was born in Cranston and went on to graduate from the College of the Holy Cross.

“I was inspired by the great work DiPrete did for our city,” Cranston Mayor Ken Hopkins said in a statement. “His leadership was evident early in his career, and paved the way for his election as Mayor of Cranston and later the governorship.”

DiPrete also served in the U.S. Navy.

He was indicted on criminal charges in 1994.

The charges were related to how state contracts were awarded during his time in office, according to a profile by the National Governor’s Association.

He served one year in prison after pleading guilty to felony charges in 1998.