Obituary of Anthony Francisco Gomes

Anthony F. Gomes, 79, of Providence, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on Friday, December 25, 2020. He was the youngest child of the late Francisco and Angelina (Santos) Gomes and husband of Helen E. (Rollins) Gomes. He was the Brother of the late Thomas, Jack, John, and Joseph Gomes, and the late Tillie (Gomes) Santos, Rosie (Gomes) Santos, Francis Gomes, Alice (Gomes) Cardozo, and survived by brother Charles Gomes and Sister Mary Ballard. He was the father of the late Michael Dipina, the grandfather of the late Naomi Decosta, and survived by sons Anthony F. Jr, Curtis A., Richard D. Gomes, Todd J. Webster, and daughters Tracey Crenshaw, April Jones, Leticia (Webster) Jefferies and youngest daughter Tammi Webster. He also leaves behind son-in-law Melvin Jefferies, and daughter-in-laws Miriam Gomes and Shawna Webster, as well as 31 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren, and a host of other Gomes/Santos Family members. Anthony, who was affectionately known as Tony/Tfaf, and was the youngest of the Gomes/Santos Family of Musicians, including his Sister, the late Jazz Singer Alice Cardozo. He played alongside his elder brothers in their Cape Verdean Band “Jackie Gomes and Kin’s,” as well as other Gomes/Santos family members. Although Singing and the Bass Guitar were his leading talent, he was gifted with the ability to play many more instruments. He was the founder of his band, TG and Black Fire, a senior member of The 7 Steps of Soul, and sat in and played along with sidebands and groups such as his cousin Flash Vierra, father of the group of brother’s Tavares, the Bill Doggett Band, the Stylistics, James Brown, and so many more that toured through Rhode Island. When Bands and Groups passed through RI, they specifically asked for “Tony Gomes,” and He passed up an opportunity to become a member of the group, the Impressions. He will be remembered for his love for his children, family, friends, and love and passion for music. He would give you the shirt off his back. Gone from the Earth but Never our Heart! A Message From the Sons and Daughters of Anthony F. Gomes: As a large, close-knit family, we ask that due to Covid, they that will be attending the funeral services wear masks at all times throughout the service; without such, you will not be able to enter and will asked to leave if you don’t abide by our request, as we will be practicing social distancing as well in compliance with the Governor’s mandate! Visitation will take place on Monday, January 11, 2021, at the Truth Tabernacle Church, 542 Potters Avenue, Providence, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a service at 11:00 am. Burial will be at Pawtuxet Memorial Park. Face masks are required and social distancing will be observed. For further information and condolences, please visit mountpleasantfh.com.