EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. - The City of East Providence is heartbroken to announce the passing of Dr. Isadore Ramos, a man whose compassion, generosity and commitment to serving this community has left an indelible mark on our city.
Dr. Ramos died at the age of 89 after a brief illness. Although he earned a doctorate degree from the University of Connecticut, as well as other advanced degrees, he preferred to be called just “Izzy.” Townies and others called him by many titles; Dr. Ramos, Mr. Ramos, Doc, Pops, Poppy and Izzy.
Born in East Providence in 1937, Dr.Ramos was the first American mayor of Cape Verdean descent, taking office in 2006. He was one of East Providence’s charter icons. He grew up in a large East Providence Cape Verdean American family, one of six children born to Isadore and Laura (Metts) Ramos. He was also one of Rhode Island’s best athletes. He became a teacher, school administrator and in retirement, an elected official and diplomat.
Dr.Ramos attended East Providence public schools and was a 1956 graduate of East Providence High School. While in high school he was a standout three-sport athlete, lettering in football, baseball and wrestling. Dr. Ramos attended Southern Illinois University on an athletic scholarship where he excelled nationally.
Upon returning home to East Providence, he became a teacher. He was the first African American teacher to work at EPHS. He was a physical education teacher, Dean of students, Assistant Principal, Acting Principal and finally an Assistant Superintendent of Schools for East Providence.
After a 35-year educational career, he answered the call of many friends and colleagues and entered politics.
He received dozens of awards for meritorious community involvement, including induction into the EPHS Hall of Fame, R.I. Wrestling Hall of Fame, Cape Verdean Museum HOF, to mention just a few. The gymnasium at EPHS is named in his honor. He was a Governor’s appointee to the R.I. Board of Elections and numerous other state and volunteer national commissions. Dr. Ramos was a vital member of the Cape Verdean Progressive Center in East Providence and instrumental in the growth of the Cape Verdean Museum of R.I. and was invited often to be an ambassador to the country of Cape Verde.
Dr.Ramos was a trusted neighbor, mentor, friend and voice of both the Cape Verdean community and East Providence leaving behind a legacy that cannot be measured by the lives he uplifted, the relationships he built and the profound sense of community he helped foster. His impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
On behalf of the City of East Providence, we extend our deepest condolences to the Ramos family, his friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him. During this difficult time we hope to join together in celebrating Dr.Ramo’s dedication to our community.
Dr. Ramos will be deeply missed, but he will forever remain a part of the fabric that makes East Providence the best place to live, learn, work and play.
May his memory continue to inspire us to care for one another with the same generosity and humanity that he displayed each and every day.
Dr.Ramos is survived by his children Kevin Ramos, Karen Boyd, Dennis, grandchildren Dennis and Tala Boyd, great grandchildren Julia and Jolie Boyd, a brother Anthony Ramos and sister Elaine Briggs. He was predeceased by his parents Isadore and Laura Ramos, a brother Frances, sister Isabelle and a brother John Ramos
