NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — North Kingstown High School paid tribute to a beloved coach and teacher before Friday night’s football game.

Joseph A. Gilmartin, 59, died Monday , at South County Hospital after falling overboard while fly fishing alone in a small boat near Black Point in Narragansett.

Gilmartin was a social studies teacher and head football coach at North Kingstown High School for 10 seasons, transforming the Skippers into one of the state’s top teams. Though he retired two years ago, he is remembered as a legend who left an impact both in the classroom and on the field.

Loved ones told 12 News his legacy extends far beyond athletic achievements, describing him as an avid fisherman, talented baseball player and compassionate man.

“He was a very humble man—unassuming, always with a smile and saying hello to everybody,” said Noah Clark, a longtime friend of Gilmartin. “He would do anything for anybody at any time. He was just an amazing man.”

Dr. Kenneth Duva, superintendent of the North Kingstown School District, released a statement expressing his condolences and recognizing the lasting impression Gilmartin left on the community.

David Giorgi, the current North Kingstown High School football head coach, said he knows Gilmartin’s spirit was present during Friday night’s game.

“I would not be here if it wasn’t for him,” Giorgi said. “I mean, when you think of North Kingstown, you think of Coach Gilmartin. Everybody knows who he is. Nobody has anything bad to say about him because he was just a respectful person.”

Hundreds of fans wearing yellow ribbons took part in a moment of silence before the game in Gilmartin’s memory.

“This is where he was at his best,” said Mark Swistak one of Gilmartin’s students. “To not have him here is tough.”

A funeral service will be held Monday with a private burial, according to the obituary . He leaves behind three children, three siblings, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

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