Jeffrey J. Soares

Jeffrey Joseph Soares, born January 3, 1956, passed away surrounded by family on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Rhode Island Hospital, at the age of 69. He was the son of the late Patricia Soares and Howard “Beinne” Starks.  

An athlete his entire life, Jeffrey played football for the West Elmwood Intruders, as well as baseball and ran track for Central High School. Upon graduating high school, he had the opportunity to try out for the Kansas City Royals, making it pass the first round, before ultimately deciding to enlist in the Army in 1974. He served in the Army until he was honorably discharged for medical reasons. A decision that angered him so much that Jeffrey hitchhiked from Colorado to Rhode Island, instead of taking military transport home. Upon his return to Rhode Island, Jeffrey worked as a contractor until his death. 

Jeffrey was a self-taught artist, often creating pieces of art for family and friends. He was a member of the American Legion-Post 69. A lover of sports, he was a member of the 1987 Mayor’s Cup Championship Softball Team and served as a referee for the City’s Youth Basketball League. Jeffrey was a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan, as well as a fan of the Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, and the Boston Red Sox. 

In addition, to his parents, Jeffrey was predeceased by his siblings, Thomas Soares, Jr., Paula Soares Hamilton, Carl Soares, Sheila DeJesus, granddaughter Ke’Tara Richardson, and his beloved puppy Rukus. 

He is survived by his sister, Marlene Taylor Edgehill of New Jersey, and brothers Howard Soares, Sr. (Sharon) of Warwick RI and Juan Chipper Gray (Gina) of Providence, RI; as well as his longtime partner Susan Walmsley, of Lincoln, Rhode Island, and their fur baby Hazel.  

Jeffrey also leaves behind six children, Dennis Davis (Grace) of Zephyrhills, Florida; Damita Davis, of Rochester, NY; Demond Davis, of Providence, RI; Derrick Davis (Carla) of Brockton, MA, Alisa Young RI and Aris Young (Joyce Perrault) both of Providence, RI; as well as 16 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.  

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