Donald "Ducky" L. Mailhot

Donald L Mailhot, known as Ducky, passed away February 28, 2021 peacefully surrounded by his wife of 64 years Pat (Glancy) and loving family, ten days before his 84th birthday. Born March 10th, 1937 in Lincoln Rhode Island to Joseph and Rosella (Harvey) Mailhot. 

He leaves a beloved son, Douglas (Laurie) Mailhot. A granddaughter Meaghan (John) Cardin and two great Grandsons, Cameron and Brayden Cardin all of Cumberland. In addition, he leaves a beloved grandson Matthew (Shelby Rodgers) Mailhot and a spark of joy at the end of his life, cherished baby Irelynn Rose Mailhot, all of East Providence. He also leaves his dearly loved grandson, Mitchell Mailhot of Seekonk.

Donald leaves behind his beautiful and dearly loved daughter Debra (Michael) Popolillo of Riverside. His much-loved granddaughter Kelcie Popolillo, her partner Katie Bockes and his pal, grandson, Michael Popolillo, all of Riverside.

His is also survived by his brother Raymond (Shirley) Mailhot of Riverside, niece Gail (Richard) James and nephew Steven (Stacey) Mailhot of East Providence. 

Sister-in-law Geraldine Crooks of Rumford. Godson David (Jacquie) and Caroline Crooks of Dedham Ma. Nephew Kevin (Patti) and Maxwell and Ryan Crooks of Narragansett.

Cousin Margaret Duby of Cumberland and her daughters, Kim McDonald and Kris Carbone and their extended family. 

In his early years, Donald was an accomplished multi-sport athlete who excelled in football, basketball and baseball.  After serving briefly with the USAF, his channeled his passion for sports serving as a well-respected football official with the Rhode Island Football Officials Association for many years.

Donald was a man of quick and active wit. He lived a full and abundant life. He loved to play golf and have weekly coffee meetings with his brother Ray and his buddies Jack, Tony, and Eddie. He loved to captain his boat (the latest was the “Debra”) with his first mate Pat and family. He cruised the waters of Narragansett Bay, Block Island Sound and Vineyard Sound for 30 years. Upon retiring from the Pawtucket School Department after 38 years, the boat was traded in for opportunities to travel abroad and the new adventures began. With the boat years behind them, together, Don and Pat traveled around the world. On one trip alone, they visited 7 countries.

Don never liked to talk about his accomplishments, only his children, grandchildren and his travels. Rarely, did he miss a football, basketball, softball, hockey, baseball, or wrestling match of his grandchildren. Don was affectionally called “Pa” by his family. He was a mentor, a pal, and life-coach. The “go to guy” that could fix anything, esp. if it included ‘Duck” tape. Don was greatly loved and will be missed by all but his legacy and memories will last forever in the hearts and minds of his family and friends. 

Sail on O’captain but not too far. Your first mate, Gods will, is longing to be by your side again.

There will be a mass of Christian burial at St. Lukes Church, 108 Washington Road, Barrington 02806, on Tuesday March 9, 2021 at 11:00am. 

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held for family and friends at a later date to be announced. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:The Tomorrow Fund 583 Eddy Street, Providence RI  02903