Bernice Ann Duarte, 74, of Mattapan died Sunday October 23, 2016 after a brief illness.
Born and raised in New Bedford, the daughter of the late John G. and Matilda (Pina) Duarte, she lived in the Boston area for the past 50 years.
Bernice was formerly employed by Boston City Hospital, East End House in Cambridge, and the Cambridge Public School Department.
She was the co-founder of the Cape Verdean Cultural Center in Dorchester and was very active in her community. She received her Master's degree in Education from Cambridge College.
She enjoyed karaoke, music, and dancing. Those who knew her knew she was "BAD", Bernice Ann Duarte, but "BAD" was good!!
Survivors include three children, Sherry Duarte and Susan Duarte, both of Brockton, and Alan D. Duarte of Fall River; her siblings, Edith Costa of East Freetown, John Duarte of Dartmouth, Robert Duarte and Eleanor Vandiver, both of New Bedford; 3 grandchildren, Steven Duarte, Dasia Duarte and Destyni Evans-Duarte; and many nieces and nephews.
She was the sister of the late Barbara Pires, William Delgado, Joaquim Duarte, Dorothy Woodland, Pauline Watkins, Mary "Maisie" Oliver, Joseph Duarte, Dominga Soares, Matilda Perry, Alice Harris, and Marie Lopes.
Her Memorial Service will be held on her birthday Monday October 31, 2016 at 12 Noon at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, with visitation prior to the service from 11 AM - 12 Noon. A small repast will follow from 2-4 PM at the William H. Carney Lodge, at the corner of Cottage and Mill Streets in New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.