Charles J. Laranjo, a lifelong resident of Newport RI, passed peacefully on Wednesday March 18, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of dedication to his family, his church, his Portuguese heritage, and the City of Newport.
Born on February 7, 1934, on Dearborn St, in Newport. Charlie’s deep catholic faith was central to his life. He was Baptized, received First Holy Communion and Confirmation at Jesus Saviour Church. Charlie was a member of Jesus Savior Holy Name Society for over 45 years and dedicated supporter and volunteer for the Annual Bazaar and Holy Ghost Feast, in 2007 Honored as Man of the year, Holy Name Society. He will also be remembered for organizing the committee for the continued tradition of making Malassadas. As Institutional Representative, Charlie reestablished a Scout Troop for the church and obtained funds to send Altar Servers to PawSox games. He is predeceased by his parents Jose and Maria (Medeiros) Laranjo and his sisters Helen Souza and Mary Williams and wife Margaret Ann (Bruno) Laranjo.
As devoted educator, Charlie graduated Rogers Highs School in 1953 where his academic excellence was recognized with receiving Rhode Island State and National Honor Society awards. Charlie was also part of the ROTC program from 1951-1953. After graduating, Charlie worked for William T Manning and served in the Rhode Island National Guard. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from Central Connecticut State University in 1959. He was listed in “Who’s in American Colleges and Universities,” was past President of the Industrial Arts Education Club and member of Kappa Delta Pi Fraternity, Photography Club, Radio Club, National and Connecticut Education Associations. Charlie obtained a Master’s in Education from Bridgewater State University in 1964. Charlie dedicated his professional career as an Industrial Arts Teacher at Thompson Junior High School until his retirement in 1990, where his practical instruction, guidance, and commitment to learning inspired and influenced generations of students. Charlie also assisted instructors in teaching ceramics at Salve Regina University.
Charlie’s impact stretched far beyond the classroom, with a life devoted to civic and community service. He held numerous leadership roles including serving as both Treasurer and President of the Portuguese American Federation. Charlie was a member of the Vasco Da Gama Holy Ghost Society, General Rosecrans Assembly, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Faithful Navigator and Newport Council Knights of Columbus, Grand Knight.
Charlie will also be remembered for his work with the Portuguese Discovery Monument Foundation as Committee member. To maintain and improve the vocational and technical education opportunities for students in the community, Charlie was also appointed to the Newport Area Vocational Technical Center’s local advisory council. Charlie’s other memberships included the Newport Sports Car Club, Kiwanis Club, Boy Scouts of America, U.S. Power Squadron, NEA Retired Program.
Sailing was a significant part of Charlie’s life. He was a Life Member of the Newport Yacht Club, where he met his first wife, Helen Marie, mother to his daughter Wendy. Charlie was a Past Commodore during which time he saw the club through their first expansion, will be remembered for starting the Junior Sail program and Ensign Fleet 5. He was a Member of the House Committee, Chairman of Junior Activities Committee and Chairman of the Frost Bite Committee. He will also be remembered for his achievements in Racing his Ensign, Fleet 4, Burgee, in the Ensign Nationals and local races along with years of commitment in hosting the annual Yacht Club Clam Bakes.
While a member of the Newport Waterfront Commission Charlie was instrumental in securing Resident Parking at Kings Park and returning Washington Street Extension to the city rolls. He was a member of Friends of the Waterfront, the Elks Club of Newport Chapter 104, and Newport Chapter AARP #207 Board of Directors and NAHRO Certified Commissioner, volunteer dedicating time to support the Newport Christmas private homes tours.
Charlie was presented with citations of appreciation by Rhode Island House of Representatives and Senate in July of 2022, recognizing his long-time commitment to the Miantonomi Park Commission, Newport Housing Authority, Newport Waterfront Commission, Newport Democratic Committee and for his role as Commodore of Newport Yacht Club. Charlie also received a Certificate of Accomplishment from Senator Jack Reed for his 30 years of dedication to the Newport Democratic Committee where he held the title of Chairman. While on the Miantonomi Park Commission, Charlie was passionate about preserving the park as open space for future generations.
In later years Charlie attended mass at St Lucy’s parish in Middletown, RI and supported the parish community and Lucy’s Hearth.
Charlie is survived by his daughter Wendy J. Laranjo of Newport, his siblings Theresa Lacerda of Middletown, Rose Northup of Newport, Ann Zerbus of Middletown, and lifelong friend Harold Perlingiero.
Charlie’s tireless life of service, commitment to helping others and dedication to his community will leave a lasting impact on all who knew him and all he inspired to grow personally and professionally. May Charlie’s passion and talent for gardening, a talent inherited from his father, be remembered as the seasons change and perennials begin anew.
Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, March 24th from 4:00-7:00 pm at the O’Neill-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring St, Newport. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Wednesday, March 25th at 10:00 AM, St. Lucy’s Church, 909 West Main Rd, Middletown. Burial will follow at St. Columba Cemetery, 465 Browns Ln, Middletown. A reception for family and friends will follow at the Newport Yacht Club.
Donations can be made to St Lucy’s Parish, Lucy’s Hearth and the Heather Abbott Foundation.
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