Providence’s Olneyville NY System Says Goodbye to Employee of 50 Years

Olneyville New York System in Providence was forced to say goodbye to a longtime employee and friend this week. At the age of 66, Jimmy Sacoccio passed away and leaves behind a legacy that will live on in one of Rhode Island's most iconic restaurants, beloved by locals and also by celebrities such as Guy Fieri and Rob Gronkowski.

Gregg Stevens, the fourth-generation owner of Olneyville New York System, has spent his entire career working alongside Saccoccio.

“When I was a kid, I began to work here for my dad, and Jimmy was one of the first people I met,” he said. “He started in 1971, and I immediately gravitated toward his outgoing, humorous, and unique personality.”

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Saccoccio’s energy was infectious.

“He had this way about him, some people just have that natural, humorous, quick-witted banter that very few people have,” Stevens said.

The sad news led hundreds of loyal customers to express their love and appreciation for the man that had been behind the counter for 50 years.

“Jimmy brought an entire personality to the place that has transformed it to this day,” Stevens said. “He instilled it in all of us and it definitely contributed to our success. He was more than just an employee. He was a friend to everyone.”

Jimmy Saccoccio’s spirit will forever live within the walls of Olneyville New York System.