Robert Joseph Avila, 87, of Warren, Rhode Island, and Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully at home in Warren on February 23, 2021.

He was born in Warren to the late Francisco and Pauline Avila on April 30, 1933. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Josephine (Catalano) Avila, and daughters Robin Remy, Leslie Dunn (Jamie), and Tracey Avila, who watched Jeopardy with him every night. He is also survived by grandson Rob Remy and granddaughters Beth Marrier, Kate Marrier, and Alli Marrier Carey (Ian, Carys, and Cameryn). Bob was preceded in death by his two brothers, Leon and Frank, who he loved very very much. He also leaves a niece and four nephews who he deeply cared for.

Bob graduated from the University of Rhode Island, where he participated in the U.S. Army’s ROTC Program. He went on to serve many years in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Bob founded Town & Country Transportation and Leasing Corporation, which grew into one of the largest privately-owned school bus contractors in the Northeast. He received national recognition for his work in transportation safety. He was responsible for establishing the East Bay Chamber of Commerce. He was a long-standing member of the Warren Rotary Club and past Club President. Bob spent 35 years managing the Food Service Operations for the Warren Quahog Festival, which became the main fundraising event for the Warren Rotary Club.

Bob was a faithful lifelong Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan and enjoyed watching their games alongside his loudly cheering wife, “JoAnn”. He lived a full life vacationing, cruising, and dining with his family and his large circle of friends. Bob and JoAnn spent their later years at their home in Sarasota and the Siesta Key Condo.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visiting hours on Sunday, February 28,2021, from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Smith Funeral and Memorial Services, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren, RI.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Monday, March 1,2021, at 10 am at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 500 Metacom Ave., Warren, RI. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Chestnut Street, Bristol, RI.

COVID-19 rules will be applied. Everyone in attendance of the wake and church service must wear a mask and maintain social distancing rules.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Robert J. Avila Foundation, c/o Robin Remy, 21 Avenue A, Warren, RI 02885. The Robert J. Avila Foundation awards college scholarships to Warren students and makes significant contributions to the community.

Please go to www.wjsmithfh.com to express condolences.