David Brian Rossi (“Joe”) passed away 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. 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.
David moved from New Bedford to Martha’s Vineyard in 1973, a move that he believed changed the course of his life. David 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, David joined the Edgartown Police, and he was named chief of Police in 2015, a role he held 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 lasting impacts on colleagues and residents alike.
David 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, D.C. David also coached several sports, in which his children participated.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was known for his infectious laugh and smile — highlights of a personality that could light up any room. He found great joy in spending time with his family, and embraced every opportunity to be present in their lives.
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.
David was predeceased by his mother, Joan Renahan; stepfather, Michael Renahan; father, William Rossi; and brother, Michael Rossi. He 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 David 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.
A funeral service was held in Edgartown to honor David’s life and legacy. Please consider donating to the Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living in his memory, online at bit.ly/MVCL_donate or by mail at Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living, P.O. Box 1729, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.
Visit chapmanfuneral.com for online guestbook and information.