Recently deceased Fall River native honored with school auditorium dedication

A Fall River native who recently passed away received a prestigious honor on Friday.

54-year-old Paul Couto, who died in December of last year, was described as an amazing father and a beloved former history teacher at Freetown Lakeville Middle School where he taught for 20 years. The school recognized him by naming the auditorium after him in a ceremony attended by State Senator Michael Rodrigues.

The plaque that bears his name remembers Couto as a vital and active member of the community and a fierce advocate for the schools.

Paul graduated from Diman Regional Vocational High School and earned his master’s degree in education at Bridgewater State University.

Couto has been described as a family man who was kind and patient. He gave back to his community in several ways. Couto volunteered with the Middle School theater group, homework club and the PTO Book Fair. He also hosted international exchange students and was a Fall River soccer and baseball coach.

Couto had a rare and aggressive form of leukemia which led to his family and friends organizing a bone marrow drive in an attempt to save his life.

The Paul Couto Scholarship & Awards Fund was also created in his honor. Donations may be made through Venmo- @paulcoutoscholarship