Joseph John Gamba

Joseph John Gamba, 73, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side.

Born May 22, 1952, he was a son of the late Louis “Luigi” and Ebe (Taddei) Gamba. Joe was known throughout his life for his vibrant personality, sense of humor, and deep love for family, friends, music, and sports.

Joe attended Saint Teresa’s School, where he excelled in athletics, particularly baseball and basketball, becoming a State Champion and earning Most Valuable Player honors. He later attended Saint Raphael’s Academy, where he continued to showcase his athletic talent on the football field as a defensive end, earning All-Blackstone Valley honors.

Music was another great passion in Joe’s life. At the age of 15, he taught himself how to play the drums and soon became an accomplished musician. Over the years he played throughout the local music circuit with several bands including The Lost Souls, Society, Blaze, Ladies Choice, and Urban Renewal. In 1969 he recorded in Boston with his band, The Lost Souls.

After many years performing as a drummer in clubs, Joe continued sharing his love of music by working as a DJ for many events and celebrations.

Joe owned and operated Coutu Moving Company for 11 years. After selling the business, he became a proud union bricklayer with Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 1 Massachusetts, where he worked for many years before retiring in 2017.

In 2004 Joe married the love of his life, Holly June Davis. They later moved to Connecticut where Joe continued his union work during the day while also working evenings as a dealer at Mohegan Sun Casino, where he earned many honors and recognition for his skill, personality, and perfect attendance.

Joe loved traveling and was known for spontaneous adventures with his beloved wife. His favorite destination was Italy, though he also enjoyed visiting the islands. Above all he cherished time spent sharing food, laughter, and memories with family and friends. Joe was also a past-president of the IDIP Club in Pawtucket.

Joe leaves behind his loving and devoted wife Holly June Gamba; his brother-in-law Gerald D. Smith; his niece Andrea Henderson and her husband Wilkins of Cranston, Rhode Island; his nephew Gregory Rhone Smith and his wife Kasey of Oklahoma; his nephew Andrew Wright of Pawtucket; his great-nieces Ava Marie and Arriana; his great-nephews Meikah and Felix; and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was the beloved brother of the late Lola Gamba Wright and the late Sandra Gamba Smith.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday evening, March 19th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, March 20th, at 10:00 AM at Saint Teresa’s Church on Newport Avenue in Pawtucket. Interment will follow at Mount Saint Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts to either HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or the American Parkinson's Foundation, P.O. Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306 would be appreciated.

Joe’s life was a song of love, laughter, and loyalty — and though the music has quieted, the rhythm of his spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him.