It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing away of David S. Ferreira, 52, originally from Cumberland, RI, on Monday morning, October 11, 2021. David was predeceased by his father Gamaliel A. Ferreira and is survived by his mother Lotty Ferreira (Rumford, RI); children Meagan Ferreira (Mystic, CT), Emma Ferreira, Madeline Ferreira and their mother and his former spouse, Melissa Garbutt (Brooklyn, CT); sisters Dulce Santos (Kissimmee, FL), Eunice S. Ferreira (Saratoga Springs, NY), Melinda Gaudreau (Mapleville, RI), and Raquel Ferreira (Stoneham, MA). He is also survived by seven nieces and nephews and a large, loving extended family.

David was born in Providence, RI in 1969 to the late Gamaliel A. Ferreira and Lotty Ferreira who immigrated from the Cape Verde Islands. He was the only boy in the family, a natural athlete in his youth, and an avid sports fan until the very end. From being lead singer in a high school rock band to performing in family weddings, David moved people with his rich, warm vocals which he also used in singing old church hymns at the bedside of his ailing father. Gammy and Lotty’s beloved son found his greatest joy in being a father. He loved Meagan, Emma, and Madeline for their unique qualities and in turn, they each brought out the very best parts in him. The greatest gift he gave them was his time. Above all else, he and his children cherished moments spent together, whether it was playing board games, working on puzzles, bowling or playing mini-golf.

After graduating from Cumberland High School in 1987, David pursued college at CCRI. He then launched a long career with McLaughlin Automotive stores which later became Fisher Auto Parts, serving as store manager of the Coventry store for over twenty years. His expertise, loyalty, dedication, and passion for service were unparalleled, but as his co-workers note, above all, David was caring and humble. He was well-loved for his sharp sense of humor and for creating a family atmosphere that consisted of impromptu celebrations, supporting customers’ community events, and wanting the best for everyone – his customers and the team at his store.

David will be forever lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his family and friends. To honor David’s life, the family respectfully asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society to support research and education about screening for colon cancer.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, October 14 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave., Lincoln, RI. The funeral will take place on Friday, October 15 at Keefe Funeral Home. Guests are invited to arrive at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral service beginning promptly at 10:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to the burial immediately following at Swan Point Cemetery, Providence, RI. At the request of the family, all are required to wear a mask for both calling hours and the funeral service. Arrangements are made by Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Avenue, Lincoln, R.I.