It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kevin R. Cleveland, affectionately known as "Knockout," who left this world on December 2, 2024, at the age of 53. Kevin was born on August 29, 1971, in Providence, Rhode Island, and spent his final moments peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family and friends in Cumberland, Rhode Island.
Kevin was the cherished son of Juanita (Cleveland Pemberton) Greene and the late Swindell Tucker Pemberton Jr., and he found strength and support in his stepfather, Allen Greene. He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Yamar Jabar Prescott. Kevin was a devoted husband to his wife, Jessica (Brown) Cleveland, and a proud father to his five children: Devin Douglas of New London, CT (Joeanna), LaMar Cleveland of Plainville, MA, A’Neysa Cleveland of Plainville, MA, Joslyn Brown of Cumberland, RI, and Trevin Brown of Cumberland, RI.
Kevin was a man of many relationships; he is survived by his siblings: Fred Cleveland of New London, CT (Heidi), Marion Cleveland Gill of Canandaigua, NY (Darryl), Sheila Cleveland Johnson of Wrentham, MA (Robert), Anthony J. Garnetto of Wrentham, MA, Vanessa Garnetto of Wrentham, MA, Angela Burke of Springfield, MA, Monica Burke of Springfield, MA, and Lamar Rayshawn Burke of Springfield, MA (Candi). His extended family included a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will deeply miss him. Special mentions of gratitude go to Aunt Ann Gavin of Warsaw, NC, as well as Larry Pemberton Jr., Nishan Pemberton, Nishel Pemberton, and Evette Nieves, all of New London, CT.
Throughout his life, Kevin was known for his passionate spirit and his unwavering love for his family and friends. He gave himself to the Lord and sought to live a life filled with joy and gratitude. Kevin was an avid fisherman and grilling enthusiast who delighted in the simple pleasures of life. He was especially excited about welcoming his new grandchild, Dakoda, lovingly known as "Little Tucker," into the family.
Kevin dedicated his professional life to working at Republic Plumbing in Norwood, MA, where he built lasting relationships with his colleagues and made a significant impact in his community.
He was more than just a father, husband, and brother; he was a friend to many, a beacon of positivity, and a source of strength. The memories he created and the lives he touched will remain alive in the hearts of all who knew him.
As we remember Kevin, let us celebrate his life—a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. A true "Knockout," he fought through life with grace and strength, leaving behind a legacy of love that will forever resonate with us all.
Kevin R. Cleveland will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend his Celebration of Life on Thursday, December 12th beginning with visiting hours from 9:30am – 10:30am at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave., Lincoln, followed by a funeral home service at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery, 200 Armistice Blvd., Pawtucket. Live streaming will be available. (The video stream window will appear on this page, below Kevins's obituary at 10:30am on Thursday).