On Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at 7:10 AM, God looked down from heaven and saw that his servant was getting tired and weak and dispatched His angels to carry Oliver “Vay” Miranda, to be with him in paradise and Oliver passed peacefully from earth to glory.
Oliver “Vay” Miranda was born December 23, 1927, in Wareham, MA, he was a son of the late Frank and Matilda (Goncalves) Miranda, and he was widower of, Willianna “Bell” Miranda, his wife of 66 years. God in His infinite wisdom saw fit to receive Oliver on the same date (May 18th) that he called his wife, four years ago. Oliver’s birth name was “Oliverial” a name he was not fond of and when he was old enough, he legally changed his name to Oliver”. His family and friends affectionally called him by his nickname “Vay”.
As a young boy of ten, Oliver worked in the Cranberry Bogs in Wareham, MA, a job he did not particularly for, however, one that prepared him, for working with his hands and understanding what hard work entailed, and what it would take to earn a living. Oliver worked for 35 years as a truck driver for Nathan’s Express and for 10 years at Saint Johnsbury Trucking and was a member of Local 769 Teamsters Union. Oliver was born into the Catholic faith and served in the church as an Altar Boy. As an adult, he joined Bethel A.M.E. Church (located at that time on Meeting Street) in Providence, RI when he met his late wife Willianna “Bell” Miranda in the early 1950’s. He was very active in the church and for many years served as the Church Sexton, a member and Chair of the Board of Trustees and also served on the Finance Committee. During his time at Bethel, Oliver was very committed to the maintenance and upkeep of the church grounds, sanctuary, fellowship hall and parsonage, as well as the financial stability of Bethel. He was a no nonsense man who paid close attention to detail to the needs of the Church and served not just in spirit and truth, but with his whole heart; and on many occasions he provided financial support above and beyond his tithes. In 2000, Oliver joined his daughter Katherine’s (aka Kathie) church, Disciples of Christ Tabernacle Mission Church, where he took an active roll working in the church’s soup kitchen, serving and feeding the homeless population. Not only did he sever in the kitchen, he also met the head cook every Sunday morning at Restaurant Depot to purchase the food and then help to cook the meals. He continued to support his daughter in her ministry until due to health issues he was no longer able to be there physically, but continued his support spiritually and financially, until God called him home to glory. Oliver served both churches with dedication and commitment to the Most High God. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, as well as a member of the Shriners.
He loved his family and was a provider, protector and example of a hardworking man who made sure his family was provided for and he had a genuine love for children. He was a loving father, and everyone’s favorite uncle and Godfather to many. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was “Papa.” The best grandfather this side of heaven. He took great pleasure spending time with and spoiling his grandchildren from the time they were all born through to their adulthood.
He leaves to mourn his passing, his daughters Pastor Katherine Miranda Soares, of Warwick, RI, Pricilla Brown (Robert) of North Carolina and two sons Oliver Miranda (Vanessa) of South Carolina and Ronald Miranda of South Weymouth, MA. Besides his wife, he was also preceded in death by his daughter Gracelyn E. Beatty, two brothers, John and Louis Miranda; four sisters, Mary Ramos, Antonia Silva, Telvina Monteiro and Rose Pina. He also leaves a host of family and friends to mourn his passing. He has fought the good fight finished his earthly course and God has called him home to his eternal rest. May he rest in peace.
Relatives and friends are invited to a home-going service on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. Calling hours 9:00 am – 11:00 am. Home Going Service 11:00 am – 12:00 pm at Keefe Funeral, 5 Higginson Avenue, Lincoln, RI. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Memory of Oliver “Vay” Miranda to:
West Shore Health Center Nursing and Rehabilitation
109 West Shore Road
Warwick, RI 02889
401 739-9440

0r to:
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Memory of Oliver “Vay” Miranda to:
The P.A.C.E. Organization of Rhode Island
10 Tripps Lane
Riverside, RI 02915
401 434-1400