Portnoy, Jacob D.
Cranston
Portnoy, Jacob D., 91, passed away on Monday, February 6, 2023 at his home in Cranston with his loving wife and friends by his side. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Romanoff) Portnoy for many hilarious and incredibly loving years. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Bradford M.S and Rebecca (Tanenbaum) Portnoy. He attended Boston University for his undergrad and followed this with receiving his J.D degree from Yale. Jacob had lived in Cranston for over ten years, previously living in the many nooks and crannies of Rhode Island. He was a skilled attorney for years, proudly serving his clients prior to retiring in 2013. Jake was a self-proclaimed comedian, a savior of Herman the squirrel, as well as a frequent flier of Rhode Island’s best breakfast spots.
Devoted father of Eric Portnoy of Boston, MA and Robert Portnoy of Colorado. Dear brother of Eveline (Portnoy) Rothman of Manhattan, NY and loved uncle of Rebecca Rothman. Jake was a cherished friend to so many incredible people, he was always so grateful and fortunate for those individuals whom he shared his life with. He was a fan of comedy and had a rolodex of jokes that were classified as too funny to print for this story of his life.
“True Story”
Graveside services will be held Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lincoln Park Cemetery, 1469 Post Road, Warwick, RI 02888 Shiva will be observed in private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
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Shalom Memorial Chapel
1100 New London Ave
Cranston, RI 02920
(401) 463-7771
(877) 463-7771
Fax: (401) 463-7850
ShalomChapel@aol.com
Pat, Eric,Robert & Eveline,
My sincerest condolences on Jack’s passing. I met Jack 73 years ago at Boston University and we remained fraternity brothers and friends since that time.
His friendship, his antics, his view on life and his free spirit was always a welcome relief from everyday life.
He will be missed…rest in peace, brother/Jack.
Aunt Pat,
Lena and I send our deepest condolences to you for Uncle Jay’s passing. We had some fun times especially when we were stationed at the Naval Base in Newport. Ill miss Uncle Jay’s squirrel jokes amongst others as well as our chats about the Patriots and more-so the Bruins. May God grant you piece and serenity during this most difficult time.
To say that Jake was “One of a kind” would be a gross understatement. One of the most gracious, humble , funny and generous people I have ever known. We chased around RI together taking photos of every nook and cranny, no object was “Off limits” to our lens. He was a dear friend and I will fondly remember him always!
I knew Jake as a sailor and a lawyer, and he will be missed. I still own and proudly sail one of his old boats, and I will think of him whenever I am aboard her.
Enjoyed many a good day or evening with Jake and our sailing friends. He was a real gentleman and good friend who will be sorely missed!!
I am saddened by this news, having known Jake at WBYC and EGYC for at least 20 years. Jake was a good friend who always had a smile and a joke to tell.
He was a god sailor and loved the water. He and his pirate friends beat me more times than not on our Monday and Wednesday racing nights.
He also provided lots of thoughtful counsel to our club. He cared very much.
He will be missed.
Mr. Portnoy represented me in a court case many years ago. I am sorry to hear of his passing. I’m sure you, his family and friends will comfort one another and share your memories of the good times you all had with him. May you also draw comfort from the words of Isaiah 25:8. Please accept my condolences for your loss.
We spent many years trading jokes with Jake and laughing hysterically. We will miss him dearly.
Jake… a Bona Fide standup guy. Helped me when I needed him the most …. Breakfast pal. He understood the Human Condition….. Great photographer… shot every bird that ever flew in Wickford. God Love You Jake… R.I.P. And may Pat and family find some comfort and solace in the days ahead.. All the Love and Respect that I can offer . Don D’Antuono