Mary (Gomes) Gonsalves, 96, of New Bedford passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday, September 8, 2017 after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late John W. Gonsalves.
Born in East Freetown, daughter of the late Manuel and Joaquina (DePina) Gomes, she lived in New Bedford for most of her life.
Mary was formerly employed by Goodyear Tire and Rubber until the closing of their plant and was then employed as an Licensed Practical Nurse at several New Bedford area nursing homes. She was a volunteer, known as "Grandma", who participated in the Foster Grandparent Program for 30 years at the Seven Hills location.
She enjoyed doing word searches and playing The Numbers Lottery.
Survivors include six children, Lydia and Jeannette Gonsalves, both of Philadelphia, Gerri Gonsalves of Virginia, Mary Gallant and her husband Dennis of Fairhaven, and John W. and Antone Gonsalves, both of New Bedford; her sister, Minnie Parker and her husband Leonard of Portsmouth, RI; her sister-in-law, Angelina Costa of New Bedford; ten grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was the sister of the late Benvinda Offley, Florence Green, and Charles Costa.
Her Memorial Service will be held on Thursday September 14, 2017 at 11 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Her family will receive visitors from 10-11 AM prior to the service. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.