John R. Gomes, Seekonk Speedway Champion, Dies at 55

John Russell Gomes, 55, of Middletown, died Sunday, June 2, 2013, at Newport Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Rose (Aharonian) Gomes.

Born in Newport on Jan. 21, 1958, he was the son of John F. Gomes and his wife Debbie, and the late Barbara “Midge” (Riggs) DeMello.

John was the proprietor of Johnny's Getty on West Main Road in Middletown.

He started working there at the age of 12, assisting his father who started the business.

John was an avid NASCAR fan, who actually raced cars at the Seekonk Speedway, winning their championship in 1989. He also provided advice and techinical support for the participants of the Newport Soapbox Derby. 

His funeral will be held on Thursday, June 6, at 8 a.m. at the Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, followed by a Mass at 9 a.m. in the Jesus Savior Church, 1 Vernon Ave., Newport.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2013, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the funeral home.

Find more information at Mr. Gomes's online memorial page provided by Memorial Funeral Home.