Gianluca (Luca) Coppa, Evangelist for Jesus Christ, master teacher, poet laureate, Shakespearian
scholar, orator, painter, brother, uncle, and friend passed into his Savior’s arms on Friday, October 16, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. Although his many accomplishments and experiences would suggest a much longer life, he was only 48.

Born in Naples, Italy on April 19, 1967 to Francesco and Anna Lisa (Colasanti) Coppa, he was raised in the historic Federal Hill district of Providence, RI, attended Providence Public Schools, and graduated from Classical High School and the University of Rhode Island. A lifelong learner, he continued his studies at Luther Rice Seminary in Lithonia, GA, and attended many classes, seminars, and professional development sessions. Teaching was his passion. He began his career in Providence as an intermittent
substitute teacher during the 1990s. Subsequently, he earned a coveted permanent position teaching English and Literature at the high school level. His outstanding skills, innovative methods, favorable student ratings, and peer recognition earned him the prestigious Teacher of theYear Award in 2002.After leaving Providence to join family in Western Massachusetts, Luca resumed teaching at Community Christian School in Westfield, where he fostered an appreciation for Shakespeare and English Literature in general. He excelled in the areas of Literature and Apologetics. His greatest impact in curricula enhancement was the introduction of “World View”, a course of study focused on Christianity as compared with other beliefs and philosophies. This introspective initiative was adapted to and shared with other
audiences and faith based groups.

Respected, loved, and admired by students, parents, and colleagues, he was honored to be the commencement speaker at the School’s graduation ceremonies on several occasions. Although declining health in recent months forced him to leave the classroom, his profound and positive influence on countless students will be his legacy. An extremely dedicated member of the Word of Grace Church in Westfield, MA, Luca humbly served as a Deacon, authored several inspirational plays, and participated in
many other activities.

A true Renaissance man, Luca thoroughly enjoyed and embraced life and lived it to the fullest. His uncanny ability and appreciation for everything in life spanned from opera to politics to church missionary work. His second to none sense of humor and constant quest for Christ will be sorely missed but fondly remembered by many, especially his dear family. Survivors include his trusted twin brother, Vittorio Coppa, Esq., of Holyoke,MA; loving sisters Rosemarie (Fernando) Russo of Feeding Hills, MA and Daniela (Ted) Rondeau of Westfield, MA; and loyal sister-in-law,Freada Lombardi of North Providence, RI. He was predeceased by his brother, Mario Coppa. He was a proud and cherished uncle of eight wonderful nieces and nephews, Yole, Bianca, Daniela,Alyssa, Frank, Jonathan, Frankie, and Michael. A caring nephew and cousin, he shared a special bond with the entire Colasanti family whose continuous care and concern he
appreciated. He will also be missed by Denali, his favorite feline friend.

The endearing relationships Luca shared with “Pastor Chet” and the Word of Grace Church, the Ellison 8 Team at Massachusetts General Hospital, especially Nurse Carol, friends from his Federal Hill neighborhood, and his students everywhere bear witness to his character, charisma, and class.

Luca’s life will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at Ocean State Baptist Church, 600 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI (jct. Routes 295 & 7) with visitation at 8:00 a.m. and services at 10:00 a.m. Luca will be laid to rest with his parents in St. Ann’s
Cemetery, Cranston, RI.

A memorial service at Word of Grace Church, 848 North Road, Westfield, MA 01085 will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at 6:00 p.m.

As an alternative to flowers, memorial contributions to Community Christian School, 39 S Broad Street, Westfield, MA 01085 would be deeply appreciated. Condolences may be left at ProvidenceCremation.com

Arrangements entrusted to the caring staff at Berarducci Funeral and Cremation Care
Center, corner of Knight & Grove Streets in Federal Hill, Providence

Michael J.Berarducci RE/FD

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