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James
Goncalo
May 7, 1941 — Mar 9, 2025
In Loving Memory of James C. Goncalo, 83, of Tiverton, RI, passed peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
Born May 7, 1941 in Fall River, MA, he was the only child of John and Laura Goncalo. James is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kim, his three children, James, Jessica and Jillian Goncalo and his first granddaughter and namesake, Marloe James Kinnane. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey P. Goncalo. We take comfort in knowing they are reunited once again.
As a graduate of BMC Durfee High School, James went on to join the US Army and received an honorable discharge. He then obtained his Bachelor's degree at Bryant College and completed post graduate courses with American Graduate University. Following his education, he later joined the National Guard for six years.
James began his career in accounting with Raytheon Company in Portsmouth, RI and after many years transitioned to become the Plant Manager at Chamberlain Manufacturing Corp. in New Bedford, MA. He later decided to serve his home town as the Town Administrator in Tiverton, RI, where he had volunteered his time for 20 years on the Budget Committee to eventually become Chairman. During tax season, James also spent decades as a tax preparer.
James had a vast array of accomplishments outside of the workplace. He was the President of the Fall River/New Bedford Chapter of the National Association of Accountants. In addition, he was a coach for the Tiverton Little League, a participant in the Fort Barton PTO, as well as a founding member of T.E.M.P.O. (Tiverton Encourages Music Participation Organization). James was also a member and Trustee of Amicable Congregational Church in Tiverton, RI.
In addition to his wife and children, Jim spent many weekends of his childhood with his cousin, Beverly Therrien. He was loved by his two daughters-in-law Jennifer Williams and Karen Moore (Goncalo) and son-in-law Andrew Kinnane. He was often found spending time with his sister-in-law Tyra, nieces Annie, Emma and Danica, and his nephews Max and Dustin. Jim loved napping with his brother-in-law John and cracking jokes with his brother-in-law Larry. He could also be found relaxing at Pico Beach with his cousin Chris.
As a lifelong enthusiast of antique automobiles, he would travel as far as Carlisle, PA to catch a good car show. Coney Island Hot Dogs and Flo's Clamcakes were frequently a part of his diet, as well as his wife's famous meatloaf. Jim was an avid camper for over 30 years and some of his best memories were around campfires with family and friends. Many hours were spent at the dining room table for intense games of Monopoly, where Jim and Dustin would bargain and negotiate who would own Park Place and Broadway. James took pride in his South Tiverton home of 39 years which was his little slice of heaven with his family.
A Celebration of Life for James will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Amicable Congregational Church on 3736 Main Road, Tiverton, RI 02878. Open respects will take place at 3:00, followed by a church service at 4:00 and refreshments with a few of Jim's favorite things.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River, MA or the Potter League for Animals in Middletown, RI in the spirit of Jim's love for his dogs and cats.
Services are humbly entrusted into the care of Southcoast Funeral Home "Celebrating A Life Well Lived"
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