Ralph J. Carr Jr.

Ralph Joseph Carr Jr., of North Andover, formerly of Saugus and Chelsea, passed away following a courageous battle with esophageal cancer.

Born in Chelsea, Ralph was the son of the late Ralph and Helen (Defeo) Carr. He attended Chelsea schools and went on to establish a long and distinguished career in the jewelry industry. For many years, he worked as a bench jeweler for Sterling Corporation, now known as Signet Jewelers, at its Belden, Kay, and Jared locations throughout Massachusetts and Georgia. Ralph later fulfilled his ambition of owning his own business, establishing RJ Carr Jewelers in Saugus’ Cliftondale Square before relocating to Saugus Center. After closing his shop, he worked at Baubles in Lynnfield as diamond setter and repair specialist.

An exceptionally skilled GIA-trained diamond setter and custom jewelry fabricator, Ralph was known for his precision, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail. He took immense pride in his craft, particularly in the creation of custom jewelry and the restoration of treasured pieces. His craftsmanship earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike. Ralph’s familiar face and reputation for exceptional workmanship will be fondly remembered by those who knew him at 333 Washington Street, Boston’s historic Jewelers Building.

Throughout his life, Ralph faced significant medical challenges with remarkable determination and resilience. In 2003, he received a life-saving liver transplant, a gift that afforded him many additional years with those he loved. Nearly two decades later, in 2022, Ralph underwent a kidney transplant, made possible through an extraordinary act of love and selflessness by his devoted wife, Patricia, who donated one of her kidneys to him. Their journey through these challenges was a testament to their enduring devotion to one another and the strength of the bond they shared.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ralph found great happiness in life’s simpler pleasures, particularly spending time near the ocean. He loved the beach, warm weather, and the unhurried pace of island life. Aruba held a special place in his heart, and he cherished the many memories made during his travels. A family trip to Puerto Rico was among those special experiences that will remain treasured memories for his loved ones.

Above all, Ralph was devoted to his family. He was the beloved husband and best friend of Patricia Nicolo of North Andover; the loving and devoted father of Jessica Cipoletta and her husband, Joseph, of North Andover; and the proud and adoring “PopPop” of his grandson, Sebastian Cipoletta, who brought him immeasurable happiness and was truly his pride and joy.

Ralph is also survived by his siblings, Donna Doucette of New Hampshire; Robert Carr and his wife, Diane, of New Hampshire; and Elaine Canning and her husband, Michael, of Georgetown. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ralph was fortunate to enjoy the companionship of many loyal and generous friends who shared his interests, hobbies, and unmistakable sense of humor. These friendships brought him great joy throughout his life. During his illness, their unwavering kindness, generosity, and support were a tremendous source of comfort to Ralph and his family. Their thoughtfulness and devotion will always be remembered with sincere gratitude.

Ralph will be remembered not only for his exceptional talent and professional accomplishments, but also for his perseverance, his devotion to those he loved, and the friendships he cultivated throughout his life. His passing leaves a profound absence in the hearts of his family and friends, but the memories they shared and the love he gave will remain an enduring part of his legacy.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make a gift in Ralph’s memory may send donations to St. Mary’s School, 14 Otis Street, Danvers, MA 01923. Gifts may also be made online at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=XZEZX3WVE4FVQ

A Visitation will take place on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Paul Buonfiglio & Sons-Bruno Funeral Home, 128 Revere Street, Revere. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at Saint Mary of the Annunciation Church in Melrose. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Malden. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.