October 2, 2026
Diane M. Rodericks, 74, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Rhode Island Hospital. She was the wife of Robert P. Rodericks.
Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Manuel and Patricia (Landry) Lima.
Diane grew up in Fox Point, Providence, RI and graduated from Hope High School in 1968. A talented business graduate, she began working at Industrial National Bank and quickly advanced to work for the bank CEO. Moving to East Providence and starting to raise a family, she then worked as a school lunch aide for the East Providence School Department (EPSD), which allowed her to be home more for her young children. She was eventually appointed as a full-time school secretary, District Benefits Coordinator and retired as the Human Resources Director for the School Department.
Diane was a former President of the East Providence Secretarial Association and active in several areas of labor-management negotiations. She worked with a nationally prominent teacher and employee union advocate, Marcia B. Reback. Diane served as a volunteer on several educational and professional development committees for the EPSD. She also assisted with raising funds at Citizen Scholarship Foundation phone-a-thons. She was a long-time member of the Point Judith Yacht Club and served as Social Activities Chairperson.
Her favorite role was that of Mom and “Grandma.” Diane lived for her family. She was an amazing mom, wife, grandmother, sibling, aunt and beloved friend to many. The public response to her passing has overwhelmed her loving family. While facing the challenge of diabetes and cardiac illness, she persevered in her efforts to be there for her family and friends. She never complained and faced each challenge with a smile and optimism. Her last days of life involved her passionate support for her grandsons’ athletic and academic achievements.
Besides her husband she leaves four children, Gina Zambarano (Adam), Jennifer Zambarano, Robert J. Rodericks (Alyssa), Becky Rodericks (Barry), four grandchildren, Michael, Jonathan, Jaxon and Levi, one sister, Paula Lima (Mary) and three brothers, Robert Lima (Eileen), Jeffrey Lima and Steven Lima. She was the sister of the late Donna Lima Brill.
Calling hours will be held in the PERRY-McSTAY FUNERAL HOME, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence on Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with a service to follow at 1:00 PM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers contributions to the American Heart Association, the Diabetes Association or Friends of Townie Athletics would be deeply appreciated.
