Leslie F. Dunbar

Leslie “Les” F. Dunbar, 90, of Bristol, passed away on May 9, 2026, at Rhode Island Hospital. He was the husband of the late Shirley A. (Almeida) Dunbar. 

Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Charles and Genevieve (Flynn) Dunbar. He is survived by his children: Stacy (Nicholas) Matrone of Warren and Les (Marsha) Dunbar of Sarasota Florida; grandchildren: Donald Spellman, Karl Spellman, Nicholas Matrone, Jessica Rizzo, Matthew Matrone, and Danielle Dunbar; and great-grandchildren: Riley Spellman, Brady Spellman, and Joey Rizzo.

In addition to his wife, he is predeceased by his daughter Laurie Spellman; and siblings: Charles Dunbar, Betty Nolan, and Jean Murphy. 

Les was a 1953 graduate of Colt Memorial High School, where he lettered in several varsity sports. He was employed by Kaiser Aluminum, JT O’Connell Lumber and Rico industries before retiring. Les also proudly served in the Rhode Island National Guard. 

Les’ life was filled with outdoor activities. He spent many years, pheasant hunting, raising beagles, bull raking the local waters, long-distanced running, and antique hunting. He was instrumental in launching the running movement in the East Bay by founding the first Bristol running group at the YMCA. Les also founded the annual Bristol 4th of July 10- Mile road race. 

An avid marathon runner, Les completed dozens of marathons, including the Ocean State and Boston marathons.  Les was a long time member of the Belle Watling running team 

When he wasn’t running, Les enjoyed weekly yard and estate sales always on the hunt for the perfect treasure. 

Les was loved by many and made friends wherever he went. He will be greatly missed. 

Calling Hours will be held on Sunday, May 17th, from 3-6 PM at George C. Lima Funeral Home, 367 High Street, Bristol, RI.

Additional funeral services will take place on Monday, May 18th, from 8:30-9:30 AM at the George C. Lima Funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol. Burial will follow in North Burial Ground. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in honor of Les’ late daughter, Laurie, to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Donations may also be made to the Alzheimer’s Association online or by mail to 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

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