James E. Arruda

James (Jim) E. Arruda, a beloved husband, father, and brother, passed away August 30, 2024, at the age of 74. 

He was the husband of Diane L. (Raposa) Arruda and they enjoyed 52 years of marriage together. 

Born in Fall River on March 13, 1950, Jim was the son of the late Edwin and Georgette (Collard) Arruda.

Besides his loving wife he is survived by his cherished daughter, Jessica Downey (husband Michael); his mother-in-law Alice (Viveiros) Braga, his brother, Michael Arruda (wife Brycie), brother-in-law David Raposa (wife Julie) and nieces and nephews who will forever hold fond memories of their time together.

He served in the Army from 1968 to 1971 as an air traffic controller in Mississippi, Alabama, and Germany.

Jim was employed by St. Aloysius Home for Boys in Greenville, RI as a counselor and was a boilermaker/welder with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 29.

Jim was known for his unwavering dedication and passion, qualities that shone through in both his career and his hobbies. His love for music was a defining aspect of his life; he spent countless hours playing the guitar and sharing music with friends and family. He was also an amazing cook and was never happier than when he was making food to share. But his true joy was creating menus for our family holiday meals and especially his Christmas buffets.

His legacy of kindness, passion for music, generosity, and devotion to his family will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jim will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

His visitation will be held Thursday, September 5 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a funeral service at 12:00 PM at the Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main St. Fall River, to be followed by burial service at Notre Dame Cemetery Mausoleum. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to World Central Kitchen. https://worldcentralkitchen.org/donate