07/28/2026
Today, our entire Townie family mourns the loss of a true legend, Hall of Famer, and guardian of the East Providence spirit: Dr. Isadore “Izzy” Ramos.
While he earned a doctorate degree and accumulated titles like Mayor, Superintendent, and Ambassador, he always preferred to just be “Izzy.” To know Izzy was to know a man whose heart beat entirely for East Providence and the young people who walked these halls. From his days as a standout Townie athlete (EPHS Class of ’56) to becoming the first African American teacher at EPHS, a Dean, Assistant Principal, and Assistant Superintendent, Izzy dedicated 35 years of his life directly to our schools.
He broke barriers as the first American mayor of Cape Verdean descent, championed our culture, and mentored generations of students. Walk through our doors today, and you’ll find his name on the EPHS gymnasium a fitting tribute to a man who lifted up every single student who ever walked onto that court.
Dr. Ramos was sharp, strong, and brimming with wisdom until the very end. His love for the youth of East Providence was unmatched, and his legacy of compassion, pride, and generosity is woven into the very fabric of EPHS.
Our thoughts, love, and prayers go out to the Ramos family and to everyone in our city whose life was touched by his remarkable grace.
Rest in peace, Dr. Ramos. Once a Townie, always a Townie. (Thank you to the Cape Verdean Museum for the pictures)