Dell G. Padgett

On Tuesday, April 30, 2024, Dell G. Padgett passed away at the age of 87. He was the son of the late O’Dell and Ethel Padgett. Dell was born in North Carolina on October 1, 1936 and hemoved to Providence in 1950. He was a graduate of Hope High School. He worked at Carol Cable for thirty-nine years.

Dell had a passion for the arts. He was known for painting,collages, photography, and singing. He was a member of the 1950’s R&B Doo-Wop group called The Castaleers. The Castaleers were inducted into the Rhode Music Hall of Fame in 2014. In addition, he was member of several art organizationsincluding the Rhythm and Blues Society in which he was instrumental in helping the organization to thrive. 

His photography had been published in various newspapersincluding the Providence Journal. His painting, collages and photography had been displayed in galleries and venuesthroughout Rhode Island and other states. He used his photography to document the black experience in Rhode Island during his lifetime, and he donated his negatives and photos theBlack Heritage Society of Rhode Island. 

In September of 2023, he was honored at the Jacqueline Clements Park in Providence, and the Padgett Art Series began. The Padgett Art series will promote and provide opportunities for others to engage in the arts.

Dell was preceded in death by his four sisters, Mary Pippens, Josie Ellison, Sarah Etchison, and Judy Padgett. He is survived by his wife Velma Padgett, his children Dell Padgett and his wife Wanda of Providence, RI, his daughter Michelle Padgett of Pawtucket, RI, a granddaughter, a great-granddaughter, a multitude of nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Please join his family in celebrating his life on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at Bell Funeral Home, 571 Broad Street, Providence, RI 02907. The calling hours are 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and the funeral service is 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The interment will be at Pawtuxet Memorial Park.

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