Edward “Ted” W. Westcott, 79, passed away on July 29, 2024 at Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by his daughters. On June 4, 1945 Ted was born to Henry and Elizabeth Westcott. He grew up in Cranston, RI with his sister Elizabeth (Betsy) Indeglia. Ted was married to his beloved wife, Jean (Swanson), for 51 wonderful years. His love for Jean, who passed away five years ago, remained constant. Ted’s three daughters and their husbands are Carolyn & Hans Franzen, MaryEllen & John Halloran, Julie & Mark Sanderson. Ted was a devoted grandfather to eight grandchildren: Natalie and Nina; John, Vince and Sophie; and Ben, Kate and Abby.
 
Ted loved his church family at Hope Fellowship Church in Cranston. He served as a greeter and nursery volunteer. He delighted in holding babies and his calloused hands could soothe even the crankiest. He earned the nickname of “Church Grandfather”.

As kids, Ted and his sister Betsy raced Beetle Cats at Edgewood Yacht Club. Ted never stopped racing in Narragansett Bay. He knew every rock, current, and how to make a light wind work just for him. In the 1980s Ted built a gorgeous custom 46’ sailboat, Dawn Treader. The Westcott family moved aboard and sailed the Intercoastal Waterway, Bahama Islands, and Bermuda. 

As a craftsman, Ted was an artist. The most challenging projects became intriguing puzzles to solve. His genius thrived with the incorporation of existing material and new. His workmanship was unparalleled. Ted’s carpentry business was Yankee Home Improvements which focused on millwork and fine carpentry. He could build or restore absolutely anything. 

Ted was incredibly generous with his time and talent. The role of Cranston Harbormaster on Narragansett Bay fit him perfectly. He loved helping people. He knew how to save the day: boats on the rocks, floods, car breakdowns, anchor line tangles, and babysitting emergencies.  

Our hearts are broken. He will be so missed. 

Calling hours will be held on Sunday August 25, 2024 from 3:00-6:00pm in The Butterfield Chapel 500 Pontiac Avenue Cranston. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday August 26th at 10:00am in the Hope Church 1114 Scituate Avenue Cranston.