Joseph Goddard Nield Jr., known affectionately as Joe, passed away on August 29, 2024, at the age of 86, in Hawthorne, New Jersey. Born in Central Falls, Rhode Island, on September 9, 1937, he was the son of the late Joseph and Lillian (Gath) Nield. Joe was adored by everyone he came into contact with for his constant optimism and exceptional treatment to all.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Alberta (Allie) Nield; his children, Joseph (Karen) Nield, Karen (Cumberland Town Council President, Michael) Kinch, Lori (Denis) Riel, Lynda Nield (deceased), Marilou (Robert-deceased) Lowery, and Traci Volpe; and was a proud grandfather to Tyler, Michael (Jilleen), Joseph, Melissa (Richard-deceased), Caitlin (deceased), Patrick (Pamela), Scott (Janemarie), Zachary, Maximus, Emily, James, (Elizabeth), Garrett (Meredith), Craig. And great-grandfather to Adriana, Madison, Charlie, Scott, Colin, Landon, Jordan, Molly, Ellie, and Colin. He was the brother to the late Joan (John) Furtado.

Joe had his wife Allie as the center of his universe, and enjoyed watching their family grow. Joe spent decades enjoying his grandchildren whether it was playing golf with them or watching their games. Over the last decade, he added great grandchildren to the mix. Spending time with his family is what he most enjoyed doing.

Joe proudly served in the Army, dedicating himself to the values of duty and service which he carried throughout his life. After his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career as an electrical engineer at Texas Instruments, where he worked for 43 years. He later served as the Director of Public Works for Central Falls, RI, for an additional nine years, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to public service and community development. He was a graduate of Northeastern University, which laid the groundwork for his successful career and his ability to impact his community positively.

For 18 years he was an active member and leader in the Boys Scouts of America receiving multiple awards. In his earlier years, Joe enjoyed hiking the Appalachian Trail, skiing, rock/ice climbing, golf and tennis. He was passionate about giving back to the community and proud of his time as the cross-country ski team coach for the Special Olympics.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to visiting hours to honor Joe's life, on Sunday, September 15th, from 12:30 - 2:30 PM at O'Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:30 PM in the O'Neill Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation , 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, an organization close to Joe's heart.

Joe's life was a testament to his belief in service, equality, and the positive impact one individual can have on the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.