PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Most Reverend Louis Gelineau, who served as the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Providence, has died, 12 News has learned. The Diocese of Providence announced that Gelineau passed away peacefully Thursday at the Saint Antoine Residence in North Smithfield. He was 96 years old. Gelineau, who served as bishop for more than two decades, retired back in June 1997. The Vermont native was first appointed by Pope Saint Paul VI in December 1971. Throughout his tenure, Gelineau was often referred to as "the people's bishop," since he was known to travel throughout the diocese to interact with the people of God. He was the second-longest serving bishop in diocesan history. Gelineau was also known for his regular appearances on his own television show "Rejoice in Hope," on local Catholic Cable TV and for his weekly column in the Providence Visitor, now the Rhode Island Catholic, called "Ask the Bishop." The Diocese of Providence said Gelineau continued to assist his successor long after his retirement. He also served as Saint Antoine Residence's chaplain for roughly a decade and was recognized in 2017 with the Lumen Gentium award for his dedicated and faithful service. Funeral and burial arrangements have not yet been announced. The Diocese of Providence is requesting donations be made in Gelineau's memory to the Priest Retirement Fund. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW