Leo O. Carriere

At age 86, North Smithfield's Leo O. Carriere departed from a world he had graced with creativity and compassion. Born to Aldor Carriere and Alice Turgeon, he carried forth a legacy of resilience and skill. At the age of 12, a baseball accident compromised his vision. Despite regaining sight in one eye, he was advised to leave school to prevent further strain. Unfazed, young Leo channeled his energy into mastering the upholstery trade, proving that challenges are merely detours in the journey to greatness.

United in love and life with Estelle A. Guilbert, their journey began on June 14th, 1958. They reveled in their love for six decades, marking their 60th anniversary in 2018. Their bond remains undiminished, even after Estelle's passing in 2020.

Leo's hands breathed life into fabric and foam, taking over Carriere’s Upholstery in 1958. One of the finest craftsmen in the region, his artistry wasn't just in creating furniture but in crafting memories. From juvenile parlor sets to specialized chairs, Leo's innovative creations caught the eye and captured the heart. His pieces raised over $250,000 for charities after his retirement from Carriere’s Upholstery, which was initially founded in 1932 by his father, Aldor Carriere, and continues to thrive under his cousin, Marc Carriere.

Joy was regularly infused into Leo's life with the cherished Monday poker nights. To him, these evenings were vibrant gatherings of laughter and camaraderie. Surrounded by close friends, it became a highlight of his week, a testament to the enduring bonds he had fostered over the years.

Leo's legacy extends beyond his craft. He and Estelle lovingly leave behind a son, Richard Carriere (Louise), and daughter, Debra Lizotte (Robert) of North Smithfield. Leo's lineage flourishes in the form of five grandchildren: Timothy Lizotte (Jennifer) Marstons MIlls, MA,  Michael Carriere (Megan), Melrose, MA, Andrew Lizotte (Amber) Woonsocket, RI, Nicole Carriere (North Attleboro, MA) and Kevin Carriere (Robyn Caron) North Smithfield, RI.  He also had seven grandchildren, Zachary, Abigail, Amelia, Noah, Alaina, Addilyn, and Aylee. Though Leo's siblings, Irene Lowe, Raymond Carriere, Pauline Baril, and Normand Carriere have preceded him in departure, he leaves behind his cherished sisters, Rosie Marie Brancoinner (Peter) of North Smithfield and Jeannine Rapko (Steve) of Franklin, MA. The Carriere family extends deep gratitude to Rosie and Jeannine for their unwavering love and support.

Leo's life journey will be celebrated Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 9AM in the Holt Funeral Home, 510 South Main Street, Woonsocket, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM in Holy Trinity Parish, 1409 Park Ave., Woonsocket. Burial will follow at St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, 63 Church St., Slatersville. Calling hours are Friday from 4 - 7PM. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Leo’s Memory to The Villa of St. Antoine, 400 Mendon Road, North Smithfield, RI 02896 or Hope Health, 1985 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904

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