CUMBERLAND
Charles Lincoln Ostiguy, 86, of Cumberland, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Maureen (Ryan) Ostiguy, with whom he shared 44 beautiful years of marriage since their union in 1980.

Born in Pawtucket, he was the cherished son of the late Charles Arthur Ostiguy and Flora (Cadoret) Ostiguy.

A proud Navy veteran, Charles honorably served his country for six years.

Charles began his professional life as an engineer but soon found his calling in the music industry. His success as a songwriter included "Be There" recorded by Donny Hathaway, and "Someone waits for me" in the movie 'The Gentle People and Quiet Land.' His talents as a pianist and songwriter, combined his entrepreneurial spirit, led him to an exciting career in New York where he formed an agency working with professional entertainers and renowned artists. His work reached Broadway and our nation's living rooms on iconic shows such as The Ed Sullivan Show and The Mike Douglas Show. He managed notable talents, including the Thad Jones•Mel Lewis Orchestra, Susan Oakes of West Side Story, and Maureen McGovern, whose unforgettable rendition of The Morning After remains legendary.

As the founder and owner of the Rhode Island School of Music, Charles inspired countless students with his passion for music and his dedication to sharing his craft. A talented pianist, he continued playing regularly, delighting family and friends with his melodies until just last week. He was also an avid golfer who cherished days spent on the greens.

In addition to his wife, Charles will be dearly missed by his children, Cheryl Savastano, Lynn Cruise and her husband Cody Robyn, Charles E. Ostiguy and his wife Shannon Gilheeney, Karen Hanson and her husband Jay, and Renee Arnold and her husband Greg; his stepchildren, Erin Contrada and John Patick "Jay" Kane and his wife Donna. He was predeceased by his beloved step-daughter, Tracey Kane.  He is also survived by his sister, Louise Steele; 19 grandchildren: Brendan Cruise, Nicholas Cruise, Mitchell Cruise, Lauren Langlais, Shawna Alger, Austin Ostiguy, Ansley Ostiguy, Cameron Ostiguy, Tara Meehan, Jack Hanson, Elizabeth Hanson, Sarah Arnold, Matthew Arnold, Caitlin Doris, JP Kane, Kaela Contrada Ray, Collin Kane, Kevin Kane, and the late Casey Contrada; and 9 great-grandchildren: Sloane, Garrett, Rowan, Charlotte, Nora, Valentina, Thomas, Wesley, and Noah.

Charles' life was filled with love, laughter, and music, and his legacy will echo in the lives of all who knew him.

A celebration of Charles' life will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 10:30 AM in the St. John Vianney Church, Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI. Burial will follow at Mount St. Mary Cemetery. The family will be receiving guests prior to the church service beginning at 9:30 AM.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the J. J. Duffy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org.

ONLINE MEMORIAL: jjduffyfuneralhome.com