Martin Joseph Flaherty

Lincoln – Martin Joseph Flaherty, 79, of Lincoln passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at his home.

   Born in Providence, a son of the late Ambrose S. and Kathleen (Gavin) Flaherty, Martin lived most of his adult life in New York City. Martin was a graduate of St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, R.I. and St. Anselm College in Manchester, N.H. 

   Martin served in the Peace Corps during the 1960’s, stationed in the Philippines.  Professionally, he became a sought-after resorts manager in the Caribbean, beginning at RockResorts’ first hotel complex at Caneel Bay on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands and later managed exclusive resorts in Anguilla. In a second career, Martin leveraged his well-known fashion savvy and charming personality as a leading associate at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City. 

   After moving back to Rhode Island in 2017, Martin generously gave of himself in service to others through faith and community-based organizations. He served on the St. Martin’s Vestry, helped lead the church’s 2020 capital campaign, the men's group, Epiphany Soup Kitchen and in 2018 set out to revolutionize the men’s clothing and accessories in the charitable thrift store, the Thrifty Goose. He was also active in local government in Lincoln, R.I. where he served on the town’s Board of Canvassers and held the position of recording secretary of the Lincoln Town Republican Committee.

   Martin is survived by his sister, Kathleen McGowan of Venice, Fla.; nine nieces and nephews, Michael Flaherty, John Flaherty, Katie Emche, Marya Dunham, Kerry McNulty, Betsy Friedman, Meghan Hall, Mary Flaherty and Tim Flaherty and numerous great-nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Stephen J. Flaherty, Susan M. Flaherty, and William A. Flaherty; and uncle to the late Peter McGowan.

   His Services will be held Friday, December 17, at 12 p.m. in St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard Avenue, Providence. Calling hours are Friday, December 17, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Rd., Lincoln, R.I.

   In lieu of flowers, contributions in Martin’s memory to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church Stained Glass Illumination Project, 50 Orchard Avenue, Providence, R.I. would be appreciated. For directions and guest book, please visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted with Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln, R.I.

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