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Woonsocket – Gregory S. Zagaglia, 52, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
Born in Woonsocket, he was the son of Judy (Renfroe) Zagaglia of Woonsocket and the late Kenneth J. Zagaglia.
Greg dedicated much of his life to public service and law enforcement. He proudly served as a Deputy Sheriff for the State of Rhode Island for 20 years, most recently assigned to the Headquarters Communications Center. Greg began his career in law enforcement as a police reserve officer and later worked as a dispatcher for the City of Woonsocket for 10 years, as well as for the Warwick Police Department. Throughout his career, he served in multiple commands across the state and built strong relationships within the law enforcement community.
Greg was also a proud member of the Providence Police Pipes and Drums Association. Outside of his professional life, Greg lived life with passion and curiosity. He was a shark diver, a former Boy Scout in his younger years, and a proud Woonsocket High School football player, as well as playing at Plymouth State College. Greg also served as a supervisor at Gillette Stadium and security for John Madden.
Greg enjoyed cooking and smoking meats, entertaining family and friends, watching football, and relaxing with a good bourbon and a cigar. Those who knew him often described him as a true jack of all trades who could fix or figure out just about anything. Above all, Greg valued his family and the companionship of his loyal dog Rogue. He also held a special place in his heart for his beloved Boston Terriers, Bentley and Cooper, who predeceased him and were constant companions throughout the years.
Besides his mother Judy, he is survived by his loving sister Tiffany and her canine companion, Mabel Jean. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, colleagues and his law enforcement family all who will deeply miss him.
His funeral will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM from the S. DiPardo Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1583 Diamond Hill Road, Woonsocket, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, 1200 Mendon Road, Woonsocket. Burial will follow in St. Charles Cemetery, Farm Street, Blackstone, Massachusetts.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the S. DiPardo Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Greg’s memory may be made to the American Heart and Lung Association.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gregory S. Zagaglia, please visit our floral store.
American Heart Association
7272 Greenville Ave, Dallas TX 75231
Tel: 1-800-242-8721
Web: http://www.heart.org
American Lung Association
Tel: 1-800-586-4872
Web: http://www.lung.org