Jim was born November 14, 1946 in Providence to the late Philip and Mary D’Ambra. He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Hon. Laureen D’Ambra, children Christine Monahan and James S. D’Ambra, Jr., his cherished grandchildren Kameron, Elle, and Preston, and his many family members and friends. He was the brother of the late Philip L. D’Ambra and son-in-law of Genevieve LaPolla. Jim was a 1964 graduate of LaSalle Academy, and received his Bachelor of Arts in 1968 and Masters of Arts in Teaching in 1972 from Rhode Island College.
Jim’s lifelong career as a dedicated educator and community leader started at Cranston West High School in 1968. While teaching history and government, he launched his 16-year career in politics in 1977. He was elected to the Rhode Island Senate for District 5, and served as chair of the Finance Committee and the Health, Education and Welfare Committee. As a Senator for District 5, he worked tirelessly for his constituents as a consensus builder and a man of integrity. He would, however, not back down from a fight for something he believed in.
In 1999, Jim started his administrative career at the Providence School Department. He was the Assistant Principal of Nathanael Greene Middle School and retired as the Principal of Oliver Hazard Perry Middle School. Throughout his career as an educator, he focused on improving attendance, classroom experience, and parental involvement. He later worked at the Urban League of Rhode Island as an advocate for diverse and underrepresented communities.
Jim served on the Rhode Island College Alumni Association Board of Directors and on the board for the Rhode Island Association of Former Legislators. He hosted a public access television show named “Straight Talk” where he discussed pressing issues with local politicians. He was also a lector for many years at Saint Augustine’s Church. He received numerous awards throughout his lifetime, including the Lumen Gentium Award for Public Service for his outstanding service to his parish, the Diocese of Providence, and the local community-at-large.
Beyond all else, Jim was committed to his family. He was unwavering in support of his wife, cheering her on at each step in her legal career. He was steadfast in ensuring his children got the best education possible, celebrating their respective undergraduate and law degrees as if they were his own. And he spent as much time as he could with his three grandchildren, enthusiastically attending their sports games, recitals, and school events. Jim enjoyed Chinese food, sunbathing by the beach in Narragansett, trips to Italy, a competitive card game with friends, and driving his white Corvette. Jim had a boisterous laugh, commanding voice, and would happily discuss politics over a glass of red wine. He inspired his former students, colleagues, constituents, and family to always do and be their best.
