Memorial Website Benefits Family of East Providence's Ric Brito

Saturday's benefit for the family of Ric Brito, former singer for the band 'What Matters?' who died suddenly Oct. 31 was a success, but if you missed it, there's a memorial website where you can donate.

Brito, 57, was a singer for the band in the 1990s, and a well-regarded man. "He was 57 years old and was known for his charisma, talent, and sense of humor, but most of all for his love of family and friends. Ric truly had one of the biggest hearts we have ever known, and will be greatly missed, Brito's memorial website reads. 

"It was a very tough week for W M…..1st we learned of the death of Steve Sherman (the original drummer) and then the UNTHINKABLE loss of my dear friend and long time voice and face of WM….Ric Brito," the band wrote on its blog Nov. 3.

Brito, a resident of Bluff Street in Riverside, died Thursday, Oct. 31 at home. He leaves a wife, Kimberly, daughter, Autumn, son Justin. 

According to the memorial site, Brito served in the Army and became a fixture on the Rhode Island music scene through his work with 'What Matters?' 

"His love of music coupled with his true love of people drew them in and, as always with Ric, kept them entertained," the website reads.

"Unfortunately, Ric passed away without any insurance and the financial burden of final services can become extremely overwhelming. Please help us help the family with the upcoming expenses during this difficult time. Please donate what you can knowing 100% of the proceeds will be going directly to the family. God bless and thank you all for being part of Ric's life and legacy," the memorial site says.

On the 'What Matters?' Facebook page, longtime fans of the band expressed their sympathy for the family and admiration for the performer.

"I love Ric Brito.. I always will!" wrote Annie Olivo-Champagne. 

"It was a great tribute for a great man! My thoughts and prayers are with the many who loved him! RIP Ric," wrote Denise Leone Fusco. 

"He was a lead singer that kicked a** - the nights at JR's, the after parties, lol the before parties! - he always had a smile," wrote Christina Pestana.

Brito's funeral will be Thursday at 10 a.m. in Mount Hope Community Baptist Church, 734 Hope St., Providence. Burial will be private. Calling hours are Wednesday 5-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ricardo’s memory can be made to ric-brito-memorial.com.