The Wakefield, Rhode Island, community is mourning the passing of David Richard Reilly, a respected educator, military veteran, hockey pioneer and devoted family man who died peacefully on August 13, 2026, at the age of 92. His death was announced through Avery-Storti Funeral Home & Crematory in Wakefield.
Born in Providence on March 7, 1934, David was the son of the late James Reilly and Catherine (Bowe) Reilly. He was married to Ann (Galligan) Reilly, whom he wed on October 22, 1960. Together, they built a family whose members remained central to David throughout his life.
David was the father of four children: David R. Reilly Jr., Elizabeth A. Fogarty, Kathleen A. Fogarty and Michael P. Reilly. He was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy.
One of the defining chapters of David’s life was his connection to hockey. A graduate of La Salle Academy’s Class of 1951, he was a talented hockey player who continued the sport at Providence College. He and several fellow former La Salle players helped form the foundation of what became the Providence College hockey program.
During the team’s pioneering early years, David and his teammates played at the Rhode Island Auditorium using borrowed Providence Reds uniforms and equipment. The group posted an impressive 8-2-2 record during its inaugural season, helping establish the foundation for Providence College’s varsity hockey program. David graduated from Providence College in 1955 and remained proud of his role in the school’s hockey history.
David also dedicated part of his life to military service. He proudly served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Knox during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He eventually retired with the rank of Captain and remained involved with the Reserve Officers Association.
His professional career was devoted largely to education. After beginning his career at Mount Pleasant High School, David joined the Smithfield Public Schools, where he served in several leadership positions, including assistant principal and director of personnel and curriculum. In 1988, he became superintendent of schools.
David was remembered for his commitment to students and his belief in education as a force for positive change. During his career, he supported vocational education, expanded student opportunities and encouraged the adoption of emerging technology in classrooms. He also coached school sports and served as vice president of the Smithfield Junior Hockey Association.
Despite his professional and community accomplishments, David’s greatest source of pride remained his family. His obituary describes a man who cherished time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and whose example of service, education and devotion will remain part of his family’s legacy.
Funeral arrangements have been announced. Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Avery-Storti Funeral Home in Wakefield. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Wednesday, August 19, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Star of the Sea in Narragansett, followed by burial with military honors at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston.
The David Richard Reilly obituary reflects a life spanning more than nine decades and marked by family, education, military service and an enduring passion for hockey. His contributions to Providence College’s early hockey program and to education in Smithfield will remain important parts of the legacy he leaves behind.
David Richard Reilly’s passing represents the loss of a respected Rhode Island educator, veteran, hockey pioneer and family patriarch. He will be remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives, former students, colleagues, hockey connections and the many people whose lives he influenced throughout his 92 years.