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HR 8441

HOUSE RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF BASEBALL ICON DAVEY LOPES AND EXPRESSING SYMPATHY ON HIS PASSING

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jennifer Boylan and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island honors Davey Lopes for his MLB excellence, community impact, and leadership, offering condolences to his family and public tribute.

04/14/2026 House read and passed
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Bill Summary · HR 8441

Summary: HR 8441 (2026) – House Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Davey Lopes and Expressing Sympathy on His Passing

Purpose

  • To publicly recognize and honor the life, career, and lasting impact of baseball legend Davey Lopes, a Rhode Island native, and to express condolences to his family and community.

Key Provisions and Provisions Details

  • Proclamation of Respect: The Rhode Island House of Representatives formally honors Davey Lopes, highlighting his achievements as a professional baseball player, coach, and mentor.
  • Biographical Acknowledgment:
    • Born May 3, 1945, in East Providence, RI; raised in South Providence.
    • Attended La Salle Academy (all-state in baseball and basketball); played college baseball at Iowa Wesleyan University and Washburn University.
    • MLB debut in 1972; 16-year career with the Dodgers, Athletics, Cubs, and Astros.
  • Career Highlights Highlighted:
    • Renowned second baseman and base-stealing threat.
    • Part of the Dodgers’ celebrated infield with Steve Garvey, Ron Cey, and Bill Russell.
    • Led MLB in stolen bases in 1975 (77 SB) and set a record with 38 consecutive successful steals.
    • Career stolen bases: 557 with an 83% success rate.
    • Gold Glove Award (1978); Dodgers team captain (1977); four-time All-Star (1978–1981).
    • Four World Series appearances; helped Dodgers win the 1981 World Series.
  • Post-Playing Career:
    • Longtime coach and manager in professional baseball, including managing the Milwaukee Brewers.
    • Contributed as a coach to the Philadelphia Phillies’ 2008 World Series championship.
    • The Davey Lopes Recreation Center in Providence is named in his honor, supporting youth programs and community recreation.
  • Death:
    • Passed away due to complications from Parkinson’s disease, in his hometown.
  • Family Acknowledgment:
    • Survived by siblings (Jean, Judith, John, Mary, Nina, Patrick), children (Vanessa, James, David Jr.), and five grandchildren; predeceased by siblings Betty, Vincent, and Michael.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Rhode Island community and public recognition:
    • The State of Rhode Island, through the House of Representatives, acknowledges Lopes’s contributions to sports and the community.
    • The resolution serves as a formal expression of condolence to Lopes’s family.
  • The Secretary of State:
    • Authorized to transmit certified copies of the resolution to Lopes’s family.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduction: April 14, 2026.
  • Action: The resolution was read and passed by the Rhode Island House on the same day (April 14, 2026).
  • Next Step: The Secretary of State is directed to send certified copies to Lopes’s family.

Impact and Significance

  • Cultural and Community Impact: Recognizes Lopes as a Rhode Island native who achieved national prominence in Major League Baseball and contributed to the community through youth programs and the named recreation center.
  • Historical Acknowledgment: Documents Lopes’s statistical achievements (e.g., 557 stolen bases, 83% success rate, 1975 leading 77 stolen bases) and his leadership roles.
  • Symbolic Value: Provides a formal, public tribute that may inspire local pride and preserve Lopes’s legacy for future generations.

Note: This is a ceremonial resolution, focused on recognition and condolences rather than creating new law or fiscal obligations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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