Joseph P. Hart

Lincoln – Joseph P. Hart, 86, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Philip Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence. He was the beloved husband of Ann (Trudell) Hart for 57 years.

Born in Providence to two proud Irish immigrants, the late Patrick J. and Margaret (Gallagher) Hart, Joe’s story began humbly and grew into one marked by purpose and service. He lived a life rooted in family, faith, and the enduring spirit of Ireland. Though he will be laid to rest in the land of his birth, his heart will always belong to Éire. A proud son of Ireland — not by land, but by soul — he cherished her stories, honored her culture, and found his greatest joy in her music. And when “Danny Boy” played, his spirit soared like the lark above the rolling green hills of the Emerald Isle. He leaves behind generations touched by his kindness, strength, and song. Joe had a beautiful voice, loved singing Irish songs, and was often called up on stage by local Irish bands.

Mr. Hart was a graduate of La Salle Academy and earned a B.S. in Business Administration from Providence College. In 1969, he completed training at the U.S. Treasury Law Enforcement Training School in Washington, D.C.

He had a distinguished career in federal law enforcement as a Special Agent and Criminal Investigator with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. He enforced federal firearms and explosives laws, coordinated investigations with state and local police across Rhode Island, and provided expert legal counsel to federal and state prosecutors. He was frequently assigned to the U.S. Secret Service, providing security for presidential candidates and foreign dignitaries throughout the United States.

Mr. Hart retired as a Command Sergeant Major after 30 years of service in the U.S. Army and Army Reserve. He served as an advisor to Battalion and Brigade Commanders and was responsible for mentoring junior and senior non-commissioned officers.

As the U.S. Military Academy Liaison Officer for West Point Admissions, he served as the Rhode Island State Coordinator and advisor to Rhode Island Senate and Congressional staff on academy matters.

He was a member of Kirkbrae Country Club in Lincoln, a charter member and past president of Ireland’s “32” Society, and a retired member of the ATF Agents Association of Boston.

A man of deep faith, Mr. Hart was a communicant of St. Jude’s Church in Lincoln.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his children: Joseph P. Hart, Jr. (Barbara) of Narragansett, Lee-Anne K. Hart of Parma, OH, Brian M. Hart (Donna) of Cranston, and Eileen Bellemore (Bruce) of North Attleboro, MA; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. He was the brother of the late Margaret Hart.

His visitation will be held Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 8:00 – 9:30 A.M. at Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. at St. Jude’s Church, 301 Front Street, Lincoln. Burial with military honors will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mr. Hart’s memory to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284, would be appreciated.

For directions and to sign the guest book, please visit: www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com

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