Louis J. Bitar

Louis J. Bitar, aged 85 and of Tiverton, died peacefully at home with his loving family present on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. He was a dedicated husband to Emily (Milan) Bitar, with whom he shared 58 wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Fall River, MA, to the late Badih and Olga (Hanna) Bitar, Louis proudly graduated from B.M.C. Durfee High School in 1958. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Bradford Durfee College of Technology in 1962 and went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Bridgewater State College in 1965.

Louis remained deeply connected to his roots, proudly embracing his Lebanese heritage. He frequently spoke with pride about growing up in the “Flint” neighborhood of Fall River, a diverse community where he was among fellow Lebanese and other nationalities. He often fondly remembered his childhood, highlighting how those early days and close friendships influenced his life. Over time, these relationships grew stronger, and for Louis, the “Flint” was always home, a place he longed to return to.

As an only child, he began working early with his parents at their outdoor fruit stand. While building his career in education, he also dedicated evenings and weekends to helping with their family business, Bitar’s Liquors on North Main Street in Fall River. They operated it with pride, dedication, and integrity until they sold it in 1977.

Louis's leadership in education was truly impactful. He started his impressive 43-year career as a teacher in the Tiverton School Department in 1962. By age 29, he was named Principal of the newly established Nonquit Ranger District. A few years later, in 1974, he took on the role of Assistant Principal at the new Middle School located at Pocasset School. As a forward-thinking Educator, Louis played a key role in designing and building the current Tiverton Middle School, serving as its Principal when it opened in 1976. In 1990, he became Tiverton's Assistant Superintendent of Schools and later served as Superintendent from 1994 until his retirement in 1997. Even after retiring, he continued his commitment by serving as the Superintendent of the Little Compton School Department for about eight more years.

Louis was more than just an educator; he was a selfless, compassionate individual who led by example in every aspect of his life. His fundamental values of quiet strength, humility, and generosity were evident in all his actions. A patient gentleman, he truly exemplified what it means to be a gentleman: kind, thoughtful, and highly respectful to everyone he met. Louis had a remarkable talent for listening with openness and empathy, providing guidance and comfort without judgment. His warm smile, composed presence, and genuine kindness made others feel appreciated, as he always put others before himself.

Above everything else, Louis cherished his family. His strong dedication to maintaining their unity, honoring their successes, and nurturing a warm, supportive home brought him the greatest joy and purpose in life. He was deeply devoted to his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, taking great pride in the strong bond that connected them all.

Louis was a well-regarded and involved community member. He served as Vice President of the Tiverton Education Association and was affiliated with both the Rhode Island Principals’ Association and the Rhode Island Superintendents’ Association. Additionally, he was a Freemason at the King Philip Lodge, a proud member of the Lebanon American Men’s Society, and a Ruling Elder at Calvary United Presbyterian Church in Fall River.

Louis is remembered for his lifelong commitment to education, his strong work ethic, and his deep love for family. He was a passionate fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New York Giants. Louis enjoyed visiting casinos, traveling, yard work, and most of all, spending cherished moments with his beloved family.

He is survived by his wife, Emily Bitar, and their four daughters: Kristen Destremps and her husband, Carl, of Tiverton; Michelle Michno and her husband, Michael, of Somerset; Rebecca Caron and her partner, João Arruda, of Tiverton; and Merryl Monteiro and her husband, Adam, of Tiverton. He also leaves six grandchildren: Adam and Ian Destremps, Marielle and Mitchell Michno, Owen Caron, and Meadow Monteiro. His great-grandchildren are Liam, Mila, Avery, and Grayson Destremps. Several nieces and nephews further survive him. Louis was predeceased by his cherished granddaughter, Gabrielle Michno.

Louis’s legacy of kindness, integrity, and devotion will continue to inspire everyone who knew him, and his memory will remain in the hearts of those he loved deeply.

His Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter St., Fall River, and again on Friday, October 31 from 9:00 to 9:45 AM in the Calvary United Presbyterian Church, 216 Harrison St., Fall River, followed by a service in the church at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Louis' honor may be made to Calvary United Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 4101, Fall River, MA 02723.