David Brian (Joe) Rossi died on Nov. 29, 2025 at the Henrietta Brewer House in Vineyard Haven, surrounded by the love of his family and friends after a struggle with dementia. He was 65.

Born to Joan and William Rossi on Dec. 21, 1959 in New Bedford, David lived a life marked by deep affection for his family, dedication to public service and an enduring sense of joy and positivity that touched all who knew him.

He moved from New Bedford to Martha’s Vineyard in 1973, a move that he believed changed the course of his life. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Springfield College and went on to earn his master’s degree from Curry College. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career in law enforcement.

In 1990, he joined the Edgartown police force and was named chief of police in Edgartown in 2015, a role he had until his retirement in 2018. Throughout his career he brought integrity, leadership and compassion to the community he served. His commitment to public safety and his ability to connect with people made a lasting impact on colleagues and residents alike.

He believed in giving back to his community, and he served on many boards: the Edgartown School committee, the Dukes County retirement board and the YMCA board. He was the first school resource officer at the Edgartown School, and enthusiastically chaperoned trips to Camp Alton Jones, skiing at Gunstock, the fifth grade Shenandoah voyages and the eighth grade trip to Washington, DC. He also coached several sports in which his children participated.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was known for his infectious laugh and smile — highlights of a personality that could light up any room. He found great joy in his spending time with his family and embraced every opportunity to be present in their lives.

David will be dearly missed by his beloved wife of 42 years, Ann Rossi; his children Meagan Rossi and her husband Brett Lazer; Alex Rossi and his wife Cassie; and Matthew Rossi and his wife Aline.

The role he cherished most in life was being a proud grandfather (Vovo) to Amelie, Blake, Ian, Dylan and Felix. He also leaves behind his siblings Bill Rossi, Patty Rossi and Danny (Jane) Rossi and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his mother Joan Renahan; stepfather Michael Renahan; father, William Rossi and brother Michael Rossi.

Throughout his life, David especially enjoyed traveling. He visited many islands in the Caribbean, including repeat trips to his favorite destination, Anguilla. He was able to travel to the Azores and Italy after his retirement. He enjoyed golfing with friends, biking, taking peaceful nature walks and cheering on the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox. These simple pleasures reflected the way he approached life with enthusiasm, gratitude and heart.

A funeral service was held in Edgartown to honor his life and legacy.

Please consider donating to the MV Center for Living in his memory at mvcenter4living.org or PO Box 1729, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.