Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia, Longtime Firefighter and Air Force Veteran, Dies at 96

Labbadia served his country and community for decades before passing away peacefully surrounded by family.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia, a longtime firefighter and Air Force veteran, passed away on March 5, 2026 at the age of 96. Labbadia served in both the U.S. Army and Air Force during the Korean War, and later worked as a chief officer at Otis Air Force Base from 1951 to 1981. He also established the Massachusetts Air National Guard Fire Department at Otis and served as its Fire Chief from 1972 to 1989. Labbadia was additionally appointed as Special Fire Commissioner and Civil Defense Director in North Providence in the 1970s and 1980s. Above all, he was devoted to his family, making many happy memories with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia's life exemplifies a commitment to public service and family that spanned decades. His military and firefighting career, as well as his community leadership roles, demonstrate the profound impact one person can have through a lifetime of dedicated work. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew and loved him.

The details

Labbadia was born on July 12, 1929 in Providence, Rhode Island to Angelo and Marie (Fasole) Labbadia. He was predeceased by his brother Americo Labbadia, sister Filomena Chiarello, and sister Celeste Seymour. Labbadia was married to his wife Gloria (DeAngelis) for 77 years, and together they had three sons - Michael, Paul, and the late Lawrence - as well as six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

  • Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia was born on July 12, 1929 in Providence, Rhode Island.
  • Labbadia served in the U.S. Army and Air Force during the Korean War.
  • Labbadia worked as a chief officer at Otis Air Force Base from 1951 to 1981.
  • Labbadia established the Massachusetts Air National Guard Fire Department at Otis and served as its Fire Chief from 1972 to 1989.
  • Labbadia was appointed as Special Fire Commissioner and Civil Defense Director in North Providence in the 1970s and 1980s.
  • Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026 at the age of 96.

The players

Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia

A longtime firefighter and Air Force veteran who served his country and community for decades before passing away at the age of 96.

Gloria (DeAngelis) Labbadia

Carmine's beloved wife of 77 years.

Michael Labbadia

One of Carmine's three sons.

Paul Labbadia

One of Carmine's three sons.

Lawrence Labbadia

Carmine's late third son.

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The takeaway

Carmine 'Larry' Labbadia's life was defined by his unwavering commitment to public service, his country, and his beloved family. His decades-long career as a firefighter and Air Force veteran, as well as his community leadership roles, left an indelible mark on all those he encountered. Labbadia's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of selfless dedication will continue to inspire others.