Louis Pulner, 66

CRANSTON, R.I. – Louis M. Pulner passed away on June 10, 2024, at Rhode Island Hospital, in Providence.

A proud Rhode Islander, Lou was born in Providence on July 13, 1957, to Norma (Shapiro) Ryan and the late Sidney Pulner. He attended Classical High School before heading off to Providence College and, eventually, Suffolk University Law School, in Boston, Massachusetts, where he received a JD.

For all of Lou’s achievements and passions, nothing was more important to him than his family. He is survived by his adoring mother, Norma, and his sister, Pamela Pulner. He was a loving and devoted father to Stephanie Pulner and Andrew (Lauren) Pulner, grandfather to Jonathan and Madeleine Pulner, and uncle to Alexa Auerbach. He also leaves behind his chosen family, Stacey and Eugene Mihaly, of Jamestown.

Never one to shy away from a good debate, Lou was an accomplished attorney and litigator. He began his legal career at the RI Attorney General’s office as a Special Assistant Attorney General, where he soon made a name for himself prosecuting drunk drivers in conjunction with the state’s crackdown tied to the campaign “In Rhode Island, Drunk Drivers Get Court.”

From his varied experiences under two Attorneys General, Lou moved into the areas of law tied to divorce and family law as an associate with Lipsey and Skolnick, where he spent two years before beginning his own practice with a concentration in divorce, family, custody, adoption, personal injury and criminal law.

Closest to his heart and central to his character were his many, many years of pro-bono work, earning him numerous recognitions and awards from the Bar Association.

He gave his time and expertise to help those who needed it most. He found hope and meaning in moments of goodwill and navigated his career with heart. Helping families and children was a great source of pride for Lou, as was his 35-year term as solicitor for the Town of Barrington. His tenure would often be a source of amusement as he’d joke it was his longest relationship. Lou was also a legal analyst for Rhode Island news for many years, making regular radio and television appearances, including on Rhode Island PBS’ “A Lively Experiment.”

When not working, he was connecting with family and friends over food, the latest stand-up comics and his beloved Patriots, Red Sox and Celtics. A Sunday didn’t officially begin until Lou started the NYT Sunday Crossword. He was a logophile through and through. He appreciated the power of words, as was quickly evident to everyone who knew him.

He was sharp, funny and always authentically himself and had the kindest heart. His ability to deliver a punchline was only accentuated by his ability to bring joy and comfort to so many.

To know Lou was to love him, and he will be deeply and forever missed by his family and friends. Contributions may be made to RI Community Food Bank, (https://rifoodbank.org/donate/) 200 Niantic Ave., Providence, RI 02907.