A memorial tribute has been established through the American Foral Endowment (AFE) honoring Robert (Bob) J. Carbone, who passed away on Aug. 14, five days shy of his 94th birthday. The tribute was created by Harrison (Red) Kennicott of Kennicott Brothers in recognition of Mr. Carbone’s enduring dedication, innovation and leadership in the floral industry.

Mr. Carbone was a devoted family man and visionary business leader whose impact shaped floral distribution throughout the Northeast. He founded the RJ Carbone Co. in 1953, and for 72 years, he and his family grew it from humble beginnings into one of the region’s major wholesale floral distributors. Through his early support for importing fresh-cut flowers from South America, Bob redefined the industry’s business model and laid the groundwork for decades of growth.

Mr. Carbone’s influence extended well beyond his own company. He served on the board of directors of two national trade associations: the Wholesale Florist and Floral Suppliers of America, where he served as president in 1988, and the American Floral Endowment, where he served as chairman in 2001. He was also a long‑standing member of the Cranston Rotary Club and was inducted into the Cranston Hall of Fame in 1991.

“Bob was a true leader in our industry,” said Red Kennicott. “His foresight and deep commitment to our profession helped elevate the industry to where it is today. He built a business grounded in integrity and family values, and he gave back generously through decades of service. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.”

He cherished family above all else. He is survived by his loving wife of 75 years, Elaine, their children Thomas and Jeanne, Linda and John, Stephen and Cheryl, and Patricia and Christopher, along with twelve grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Mr. Carbone and Elaine spent thirty wonderful winters in Palm Springs with family and friends, always surrounded by warmth, laughter, and love.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Aug. 21 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Russell J. Boyle and Son Funeral Homes, 142 Centerville Road, Warwick, RI. Funeral services will be held on Friday, Aug. 22 at 10 AM at St. Luke’s Church in East Greenwich, 99 Peirce Street, followed by burial at Swan Point Cemetery, 585 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, RI.

You can honor Bob’s memory with a contribution to the Bob Carbone Memorial Tribute through AFE. Contributions can be made online here or by sending a check with this form to AFE.

American Floral Endowment
c/o Bob Carbone Memorial Tribute
610 Madison Street, Suite 101, PMB 803
Alexandria, VA 22314

The family will be notified of all gifts, which may be made in any amount.