Joseph Cafarella, Jr.

There are people who change the world just by being in it. Joseph Cafarella was one of those people. His presence made life brighter and left you feeling safe, loved, and cared for in a way only he could. He reminded everyone around him of what really matters. Losing him has left a space, a void, that nothing can quite fill. The world is going to feel very different without him.

Joe was a devoted husband to Janine for 48 years, a proud and loving father to Tommy (with his wife Diana), Julie, and Lisa (with her wife Candace). He was the best Grampy his grandchildren could ever ask for: Jaiden, Kate, Brett, Dane, Cole, Reign, and Riley. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time with them.

Over the years Joe was a jack of all trades, holding many jobs and always ready to put his skills and hands to work. Most recently, he served as a substitute teacher with the Cranston Public School System, especially at Park View Middle School, where his granddaughter Jaiden is a student.

Joe will be remembered as a man with the best heart: thoughtful, kind, and always ready to help. He loved telling stories, and we loved listening to them. He gave endlessly of himself and left everyone a little better than he found them.

He was truly the best of us. His memory will live on in his family, in the stories we share, and in the love he gave so freely.