ÀAntonetta “Etta” A. Forte, 97, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Heritage Hills Nursing Home in Smithfield, where she had a brief stay in rehabilitation. She had been planning to return to her longtime home in Providence, where she had lived for many years and where she and her sister, Celia, were warmly known throughout their Providence and North Providence neighborhood. The two were devoted walkers, familiar faces on their daily routes.

A devoted caregiver, Etta lovingly cared for both her mother and mother-in-law, all while maintaining an immaculate home. She took pride in her housekeeping, washing her floors on her hands and knees until her own knees could no longer bear it many years later.

Blessed with remarkable health, Etta lived the first 97 years of her life free of medications, needing only a brief period of treatment for high blood pressure.

She was the wife of the late Domenic A. Forte. Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Salvatore and Genoveffa (Izzi) Pellegrino.

Etta was lovingly cared for by her devoted niece and caregiver, LaurieD’Ambra, along with her beloved and trusted CNA, Darlene Adams, whom Etta came to love and embrace as family. A special thank you is extended to her very loving niece, Ann Marie McNeil, who, despite often not feeling well herself, never failed to brighten Etta’s days.She made her smile and laugh with every visit—sharing funny TikTok videos of cats (her favorite), watching old movies together, playing country music and oldies she loved, and bringing delicious homemade food and treats. Etta was truly happiest when surrounded by her family, sharing memories of all, whether in touch or not,remembering, and missing loved ones who had passed.

Heartfelt gratitude is also extended to her nephew-in-law, Paul, heron-called handyman, who made sure she always had her coffee and muffins on weekend mornings, did her laundry, and always added the “prizes”(toilet paper and paper towels), as he referred to them, keeping her well-stocked. To her great-niece, Ashley D’Ambra, for the use of her car for medical appointments, making it easier for Etta to get in and out of, as opposed to other vehicles, given her loss of strength andsize, occasionally stopping by for a visit. A special thank you to her great-nephew, Steven D’Ambra, for always helping whenever needed without hesitation, and stopping by for an occasional alone or with his family; always lighting up her day.. She was small, but her heart was enormous; she loved her family deeply and was a woman of strong faith.

Deep appreciation is extended to a very special friend, DeniseMaldenado, who was always ready to step in whenever called, covering CNA shifts, including holidays, and showing Etta genuine love and kindness. Finally, to all her surrounding neighbors who looked out for her in one way or another, at one time or another, specifically Anna, who many times brought her meals. Carmen, whom the family is deeply grateful to for keeping Etta safe from all harm, immediately calling the family when she was confused, attempting to leave the apartment, and/or heard her in distress; waiting with her until the family arrived.

Everyone mentioned made a meaningful difference in Etta’s life, in ways both great and small, making her difficult and final years easier and happier. Though she slipped away more each day, both mentally and physically, she knew she was surrounded by love and care, even when she could not always express it.

Etta was predeceased by her siblings: John Pellegrino, Fulmena “Fanny”Izzo, Gloria Brotherton and Saveria “Ceila” Beaulieu.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m.to 12:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service at 12:00 noon at Maceroni Funeral Home, 1381 Smith Street, North Providence. Burial will follow at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.