Community
Services announced in Fall River for legendary boxing coach Liberal “Libby” Medeiros
OBITUARY
SWANSEA – Liberal “Libby” Medeiros, age 78 of Swansea, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Charlton Memorial Hospital with his loving family by his side. Born in Arrifes, São Miguel, Açores, Libby was the beloved husband of Sandra (Sousa) Medeiros and the son of the late Joseph and Maria (Moniz) Medeiros.
He devoted more than sixty years of his life to the sport of boxing, a passion that began in 1968 and became one of the defining parts of his life and legacy. Known throughout the community for his dedication to the sport, he worked with both amateur and professional fighters, offering guidance, discipline, and encouragement to generations who walked through the gym doors. He carried a deep understanding and love for the sport that he shared freely with others. As a proud member of the P.A.L. (Police Athletic League), he became far more than a coach to many. He was a mentor, role model, and father figure who asked only for effort, respect, and heart in return.
Outside of boxing, he built a long and respected career with KR Rezendes Inc., where he worked for more than thirty years and finished his career as a superintendent. Despite his accomplishments, he remained humble, selfless, and deeply devoted to his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Though many may have known him as the “big scary gorilla” who playfully frightened visitors at the very first haunted house in Fall River, those who truly knew him understood that behind the costume was one of the sweetest and most generous souls you could ever meet.
Whether in the boxing ring, at work, or at home with his family, he lived his life with quiet strength, humility, and heart. His lessons, his love, and his legacy will continue to live on in the many fighters he guided, the community he helped shape, and most especially in the family who carries his name with pride. As his granddaughter said, His spirit will forever echo in every bell that rings in the squared circle at P.A.L.
In addition to his wife Sandra, Libby is survived by his children Kenneth Medeiros (Brenda Lemaire) of Swansea, Brian Rego (Carla Moore) of California, and Sherry Medeiros; sister Geraldine Medeiros of Fall River; grandchildren Corey Medeiros, Karrie Lucas, Alisa Lucas, Autumn Medeiros, Brian Rego Jr., and Jessica Rego; many great grandchildren; and several nieces & nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Edward Medeiros and granddaughter Kelly Rego.
Libby’s funeral services will take place in the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 N. Main St., Fall River on Friday, March 20th at 10:00 A.M. Interment at Vinnicum Woods Cemetery, Swansea. Calling hours on Thursday, March 19th from 4-7 P.M.