In Our Care
Donald C. Farnsworth, Jr.
5/14/1954 - 7/7/2026
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Obituary For Donald C. Farnsworth, Jr.
Donald C. Farnsworth, Jr., 72, of Bristol, RI passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, after a courageous two-and-a-half-year journey with ALS. He was surrounded by the love of the family who meant everything to him.
Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, Don was the son of the late Donald C. Farnsworth, and Irene (Adams) Farnsworth. He grew up in Bristol, Rhode Island, where his deep roots, lifelong friendships, and love of the water shaped the person he would become.
For 39 years of marriage, Don shared life with his beloved wife, Jane (Oliver) Farnsworth. Their story began in high school, where they first met as teenagers, and together they built a life centered on love, laughter and adventure. Along with their daughter, Lauren, the three of them were a team in every sense of the word. Their greatest joy came from simply being together, and while they now grieve the loss of one-third of their team, the love they shared will remain with them always.
Don is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his daughter, Lauren Farnsworth, and her partner, McKenzie Kotuby; his siblings, Robert Farnsworth (Marsha), Sharon Forster, Kathleen August (Dave), and John Farnsworth; his mother-in-law, Olga Oliver; his sisters-in-law, Joyce Oliver and Beth Arcello (Steve); as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, including Kristin Faraone, Amy Faraone (Matt), Seth Faraone, Aaron Arcello (Anna), Andrew Arcello (Meghan), Sara Sleeper (John), Toby Farnsworth (Breanna), Amelia Jordan (Mike), Emily Santos (Nuno), and James Forster.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law George Oliver, his brother-in-law John Forster and by his sister and brother-in-law, Gail and Joe Faraone.
A gifted craftsman, Don possessed an extraordinary talent for woodworking, particularly fine finish carpentry and the restoration of historic homes. Throughout his career, he left his mark on countless homes and buildings throughout Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. He later became a member of Carpenters Local 94, where he worked for many years until his retirement. Anyone who spent time with Don likely heard stories about the projects he helped build. His knowledge of local landmarks and neighborhoods seemed endless, and he could navigate nearly anywhere by recalling a building he had worked on or restored.
Don lived a life guided by adventure, fun, and a love of live music. That adventurous spirit was evident from an early age. At just 15 years old, he and his friends made the unforgettable journey to the Woodstock Music & Art Fair in 1969, an experience he proudly recounted throughout his life.
Don also loved sharing good food with the people he loved. Family and friends fondly looked forward to his legendary little neck clam boils and his clams casino, meals that brought everyone together and became a cherished tradition.
Don also enjoyed many years of golfing with close friends and was a member of Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth. He found peace on the ocean, having lived and worked around the water his entire life, and he passed that love of the sea on to his daughter.
Don had an enormous heart for animals. He adored his beloved cat, Peanut, affectionately known as "Peanoto" who preceded him in death and was never far from his thoughts.
Those who knew Don will remember him for his warmth, kindness, quick wit, and remarkable ability to connect with anyone he met. His stories and laughter will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Don's life at Smith Funeral & Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren, RI, where family will receive friends Thursday July 23, 2026, from 9:00 – 11:00 AM followed by a memorial service from 11:00 – 11:30.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Potter League for Animals (87 Oliphant Ln, Middletown, RI 02842) https://potterleague.org/donateor ALS United Rhode Island (2374 Post Rd #103, Warwick, RI 02886) https://alsunitedri.org/donate , in honor of Don's love for animals and in support of families affected by ALS.
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09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Celebration of Life Ceremony
11:00 AM
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