It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Howie “Bugs”, on December 23, 2024, at Kent County Hospital in Warwick, Rhode Island, following a brief illness. Born on December 8, 1933, and a longtime resident of Warwick, RI, he is predeceased by his parents, Clark and Lillian, and his three siblings, George, Clark and Barbara.
A devoted family man, he was deeply loved by his daughters and their families: Jill Montaquila and her husband Jeffrey, Jane Bugbee and her wife Tracey Cassara, and his son Howard Bugbee, Jr. and his wife Keri. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Paige Alves (husband William), Kevin Bugbee-Cassara (Jenna), Alec Montaquila (Kassidy), and Ezra Bugbee-Cassara. His joy was further expanded by his great-grandson, Liam Alves, and he was excited to welcome the soon-to-be arrival of his second great-grandson. Along with his immediate family, he also cherished extended members, including Zachary, Lily, Lena, Chloe, and Nerea, who spent time living with his daughter, Jane, and were a beloved part of his life. He had an unshakeable love for his family, which was evident in everything he did.
As a retired Battalion Chief with the Warwick Fire Department, “Bugs” dedicated much of his life to serving his community, and he shared a special bond with his longtime friends and fellow firefighters, Art Legault, Ed Thurston, and Ed Armstrong. He was a US Navy veteran and carried with him a strong sense of duty and service.
With a voice as big as his heart, he lived life with an infectious zest and enthusiasm. He brought joy to those around him with his sense of humor and deep, unconditional love for those he held dear. He also had a special place in his heart for his “Granddogs” – Charlie, Fabio, Bella, Tilly, Sophie, Clyde, Philo, and Roxy – who brought him comfort and companionship.
His zest for life and his loving presence will be sorely missed by all. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty that will be cherished forever. He will be missed beyond words by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
His family expresses deep gratitude to the caregivers at Kent County Hospital and VNA Care New England Hospice for their care and compassion.
Visiting hours and funeral services are respectfully omitted. A celebration of Howie’s life and his remarkable firefighting career will be held at a later date.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick.
Donations may be made in his memory to the: VNA Care New England Foundation, Philanthropy Building 2, 171 Service Avenue, Suite 310, Warwick, RI 02886 or online at: http://vnacarenewengland.org.
Rest in peace, Dad. You will always be loved.
www.murphyfuneralhomes.org
