Local leaders, friends, colleagues react to Cianci’s passing

January 28, 2016 12:04 pm

By News Staff

news@abc6.com

Former Providence Mayor Vincent "Buddy" Cianci has passed away at the age of 74. Local leaders, colleagues, and friends, are reacting to his passing:

Philip J. Lombardo, Chairman & CEO, Citadel Communications Company:

“It was my great pleasure to know and appreciate Buddy since acquiring WLNE in 2011. His work as Chief Political Analyst for ABC6 showcased his unique talents and understanding of Rhode Island’s political scene. More importantly, I witnessed his love and passion for the city of Providence. Buddy will always hold a special place in the history and lore of this great American city. He will be missed.”

Chris Tzianabos, Vice President, General Manager WLNE-TV/ ABC6:

“Buddy was one of a kind, a political legend; he captured the hearts of our viewers with his quick wit and talent for straight talk. He will be remembered for his many accomplishments making the city of Providence and Rhode Island a better place to live. We will miss his warm heart and caring ways. Everyday, Buddy would arrive in the newsroom with big bags of candy and a smile. He will be dearly missed by all here at ABC6”

Jorge Elorza, Mayor of Providence:

“My thoughts and prayers are with Mayor Cianci’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Mayor Cianci’s love for the City of Providence is undeniable and his mark on the city will not be forgotten. I have ordered flags at City Hall to be flown at half-staff as we make arrangements to recognize his memory.”

Angel Taveras, Former Mayor of Providence :

"Buddy Cianci was one of a kind. His love and impact on Providence will be felt for generations, by those who enjoy a show at PPAC or stroll by the rivers during WaterFire. He recently joked with me that we were part of a very exclusive club, former Providence mayors and unsuccessful gubernatorial candidates. That was Buddy, always funny. My deepest condolences to his grandchildren and family. Rest in peace Mayor Cianci."

Ray Flynn, Mayor of Boston:

“I will miss my long time friend Buddy Cianci. He was a great Mayor to the City of Providence. I just spoke to him the other day about family, politics and Friar basketball. I was proud to stand with him in good times and the rough days as well. He often called Joe Paolino and me his two most loyal friends; which I was proud to be called. His visits to Rome, and our many meetings when we were mayors we’re very special. We remained close friends. He did a lot to help the people of Providence and he will be deeply missed.”

Joseph R. Paolino, former Mayor of Providence

“With this morning’s passing of Providence’s longest serving mayor, Vincent A. Cianci, Jr., the people of Providence and the City itself has lost its greatest champion. He gave his heart to Providence. The city’s energy and very soul will always reflect his love and brilliance in forging the Providence Renaissance. Our thoughts and prayers are now with his family and his fiancée. As arrangements are made, more information will be released.”

Joseph M. McNamara, Chair of the RI Democratic Party:

"The Rhode Island Democratic Party joins fellow Rhode Islanders in offering deepest sympathies on the sudden passing of Vincent A. "Buddy" Cianci to his fiancée, family and colleagues. His colorful personality, passion for living and dedication to all things political will long be remembered: his larger than life personality will be greatly missed. Buddy Cianci was a true legend in Rhode Island, and he will leave a lasting mark on government, politics and his beloved capital city."

David Salvatore, Providence City Council:

"I was deeply saddened to learn this morning about the passing of former Providence Mayor, Vincent ‘Buddy’ Cianci. Rhode Island has lost an iconic public figure. As an elected official in Providence, I enjoyed engaging in conversation with Buddy and will fondly remember our discussions, whether they were in passing on Federal Hill or with him on WPRO. He was always passionate and eager to talk about his favorite sport: politics. Today, as so many of us reflect on the life of Mayor Cianci, one thing is clear: his passion for the city he loved so much will never be forgotten. The City of Providence will forever carry his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. I join the many Providence residents in sending my thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones."

Gina Raimondo, Rhode Island Governor:

“My thoughts and prayers go out to former Mayor Buddy Cianci’s family, friends and loved ones. He was a colorful part of Providence’s fabric, and his love for our capital city never wavered.”

Nick, Ron, & Pete Cardi, Cardi’s Furniture:

"Buddy Cianci always got behind whatever charitable or non-prof efforts we were doing – in Providence and throughout Rhode Island. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cianci Family as well as those who worked along side him so closely. We’ll Miss You, Buddy."