Former R.I. Rep. Joseph Lima dies, remembered for dedication to community and Portuguese culture

PROVIDENCE – Joseph M. Lima, a prominent figure in the Portuguese-American community of Rhode Island, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the age of 78.

A former Rhode Island state representative and first president of the Rhode Island Day of Portugal celebrations at the R.I. State House, Lima is being remembered as a cherished leader who distinguished himself in public service and whose dedication and passion for celebrating Portuguese heritage and culture have left an indelible mark.

“Joe’s vision and leadership were instrumental in establishing the Rhode Island Day of Portugal, creating a vibrant and inclusive celebration that brought together countless individuals over the years,” said Orlando Mateus, who served as 41st President of the Day of Portugal and Portuguese Heritage in Rhode Island. “His legacy of fostering unity, pride, and cultural appreciation will continue to inspire us all.”

For Mateus, Lima was more than a longtime friend and mentor.

“He was a guiding light whose dedication to Portuguese culture profoundly influenced my life,” he said. “His wisdom and counsel were always just a call away, and his unwavering commitment to community and heritage will forever inspire me.”

Marie Fraley, a past R.I. Day of Portugal Committee president and retired director of Rhode Island College’s Institute for Portuguese and Lusophone World Studies, said she’ll remember Lima as “a true statesman, gentleman, and family man who was a community builder.”

“As the first President of the Rhode Island Day of Portugal celebration, he was the foundation of a rich and enduring tradition that continues until this day in Rhode Island,” she said. “His warmth and wisdom will be sorely missed.”

The immediate past president of the R.I. Day of Portugal committee Ana Isabel dos Reis-Couto described Lima as “a pillar of the Portuguese community.”

“He recognized that effective leadership was rooted in a deep pride for our cultural heritage, and that to embrace our history not only strengthens our identity but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity among community members,” she said. “[He] believed in celebrating our traditions, values, and contributions to society so that our culture and heritage was vibrant. He was a steward of our culture, ensuring that our rich narratives and experiences were honored and shared, so that ultimately, they enriched the broader community while fostering resilience and solidarity. That is a legacy that will forever be remembered.”

Councilor for the Portuguese Communities Marcia da Ponte said the community is poorer for Lima’s passing.

“He was a great Portuguese,” she said. “He was proud of his roots and a great advocate for his community. Always very polite, humble and with a great sense of responsibility. May the example of his life be a great inspiration to us all.”

What is Joseph Lima known for?

Born in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Lima came to the United States in 1959 at age 13.

According to his obituary, he worked in management at Davol Rubber Company in Providence, and then moved on to sales positions at for-profit schools, including serving as the Northeast Regional Sales Director at an airline training school out of Miami Beach.

He retired as the Director of Admissions and Corporate Training Coordinator at New England Tractor Trailer Training School in Pawtucket, R.I.

In 1976, he was elected to the R.I. House of Representatives and served from 1977 to 1984, representing Providence as Deputy Majority Leader on the House Finance Committee and on House Education and Corrections Sub-Committees.

He was instrumental in eliminating the state tax on clothing and in opening House Committee meetings to the general public.

He served as Chairman of the Legislative Commission on English as a Second Language and introduced legislation creating the Portuguese Cultural Foundation in Rhode Island.

He also recommended to Governor Joseph J. Garrahy the appointment of M. Rachel Sousa Cunha to the R.I. Board of Regents, known today as the RI Board of Education.

He was the proponent of Peter Francisco Day in the State of Rhode Island.

He remained an active board member of the Rhode Island Day of Portugal and had the honor of serving as Grand Marshal of the 40th celebration in 2017.

When is Joseph Lima’s funeral?

Lima leaves behind his wife Teresa of 39 years, five children (Lori Medeiros and her husband Fred; Wayne J. Lima; Lisa M. Speel and her husband John; Soraya Rodrigues and her fiancé Shikenya, and Bruno Rodrigues) and eight grandchildren.

His funeral will be held on Monday, Oct. 21 at 9 a.m. from the Perry-McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Ave., East Providence, R.I.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, at 21 Traverse St., Providence, R.I.

Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

Calling hours will be Sunday, Oct. 20 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that contributions be made to Hope & Faith Drive, LLC., 18 Intervale Ave., East Providence, R.I. 02914.