News Summary
Avelino J. Rose, known as ‘Chappy,’ passed away at 101, leaving behind a legacy of service and community leadership. A World War II veteran, he broke barriers in his career and made significant contributions to the Cape Verdean-American community in Rhode Island. His funeral services will be held soon, and his family requests donations to a veteran memorial project in his honor.
East Providence, Rhode Island – Avelino J. Rose, known affectionately as “Chappy,” passed away peacefully at his home on September 20, 2025, at the age of 101. He was a distinguished World War II veteran, trailblazer in his community, and a beloved family man. His death marks the end of a remarkable life filled with resilience, service, and devotion to family.
Born in East Providence, Chappy was the eldest of four children to Jose DaRosa and Annie DeBrito DaRosa. He is predeceased by his siblings: Ida (Rose) Moniz, Mary (Rose) Varela, and Joseph Rose. He was the devoted husband of the late Alice (Fontes) Rose, with whom he enjoyed 44 years of marriage. Chappy is survived by five children: William Rose and his wife Linda of Rehoboth, MA; Lois Gordon and her late husband John Gordon of Johnston, RI; Jeffrey Rose and his wife Patricia of Seekonk, MA; Joseph Rose of East Providence, RI; and Elizabeth A’Vant and her husband John of Lincoln, RI. He leaves behind seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and his beloved partner, Valorie Hopes.
Chappy’s legacy is deeply rooted in his identity as a first-generation Cape Verdean-American who made significant contributions to his community. He served as a Corporal in the 1883rd Company A Aviation Engineers, which was attached to the 10th Air Force during the China-Burma-India Theater in World War II. His bravery and sacrifices during the war earned him numerous accolades, including the Purple Heart, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with Bronze Battle Star.
Following his military service, Chappy became a notable figure in Rhode Island, where he broke barriers in his professional career. He was recognized as the first Black/Cape Verdean Processing Sheriff and later as the first Black/Cape Verdean Waterfront Superintendent for John J. Orr & Sons. His leadership extended to community organizations, where he served as Commander of the China-Burma-India Mini State Basha, RI Veterans Association, from 2003 to 2009.
Chappy was also a respected member of the Cape Verdean Progressive Center, where he contributed significantly through volunteer work as Social Chair and Building Chair. His involvement included overseeing renovations and construction projects, which played a vital role in the center’s development. He was later honored as an honorary member of the organization, acknowledging his commitment to uplifting others in his community.
Throughout his life, Chappy was remembered as a war hero and visionary, deeply connected to his roots and determined to make a difference for those around him. His efforts were instrumental in creating a supportive environment for Cape Verdean-Americans and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Chappy’s funeral services are set for Friday, September 26, 2025. The service will begin at 9:00 AM from the Perry-McStay Funeral Home in East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Loreto Church. He will be laid to rest in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Calling hours are scheduled for Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 4 to 8 PM.
In remembrance of Chappy’s enduring legacy, the family has requested that donations be made to the RI Cape Verdean Veterans Memorial Project in lieu of flowers.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Obituary for Avelino J. Rose
- Wikipedia: World War II
- Legacy.com: Tammy Powers Obituary
- Google Search: Cape Verdean American history
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Kenneth Dion Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Purple Heart
- Dignity Memorial: David Toye Obituary
- Google News: Avelino J. Rose
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
