Timothy S. Chilinski, 76, of Smithfield, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Fatima Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Darlene S. (Stuart) Chilinski.
Born in Providence, Tim was the son of the late Theodore and Elsa (Leach) Chilinski. He had been a proud resident of Smithfield for the past 47 years.
Tim attended the University of Rhode Island for two years before beginning his career with The Outlet Company. He later joined WJAR-TV Channel 10, where he dedicated 22 years of service and retired as Director of Engineering. Following his retirement, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by opening Electronic Bargain Outlet, a computer store in Cranston.
A devoted member of the Smithfield Lodge of Elks #2359 for 42 years, Tim's commitment to the organization was extraordinary. He served in every chair of the lodge, including two terms as Exalted Ruler. His leadership extended beyond the local lodge as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler, Rhode Island State Vice President, and Rhode Island State President. Tim was also honored as both an All-State and All-American Lodge Champion.
More than the titles he held, Tim will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to others. He devoted countless hours to charitable work through numerous Elks committees and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Known affectionately as the lodge's "book of knowledge," he had an exceptional understanding of Elk statutes and traditions and took great pride in sharing that knowledge while honoring those who had mentored him.
Outside of the Elks, Tim found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially his wife, son, and beloved grandson, Finnegan. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, clamming, and tackling projects around the house. Whether he was building his first home, tending his garden, or repairing something that needed fixing, Tim loved working with his hands and keeping busy. He took great pride in passing along his skills and knowledge—from changing watch batteries to electrical and plumbing projects—to his son and grandson. Always curious and eager to learn, he even embraced YouTube as a way to expand his knowledge and master new skills.
Besides his wife, Tim is survived by his son, Timothy S. Chilinski, Jr., and his wife, Erin, of Chepachet, and their son, Finnegan. He also leaves his siblings: Cathy Horridge and her husband, Walter, of Huntersville, North Carolina; Nancy Fortin and her husband, Steven, of Warwick; and Robert Chilinski and his wife, Mary Jane, of Germantown, New York. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as his many brothers and sisters of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, whose lives were enriched by his friendship, leadership, and generosity.
His funeral service will be held Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 11am in the Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home, Rt 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville. Burial will follow in Highland Park, Johnston. Visitation is Wednesday, July 29, 2026 from 4-7pm. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to the American Heart Association