Laura A. Duarte died on Thursday, January 17th at St. Luke’s hospital. Her daughters were with her as she peacefully took her leave.
Laura was born in Taunton, MA. to the late Antonio and Constance Andrade. She was the widow of Joao J. Duarte who died in 1955.
Laura was a wonderful mother who was devoted to her children, grandchildren and her “grand dogs.” She loved her home and her beautiful rose garden, including the Queen Elizabeth rosebush she planted when her eldest daughter was born which continues to flourish. She enjoyed spending time in her garden and sitting on her porch speaking to all that passed by.
Laura was a gifted and talented seamstress, quilter and loved to crochet. She enjoyed selecting just the right fabrics and lace to make the many wedding bags for her family and friends. She quilted by hand and was so proud to see the joy to those who lovingly received her gifts. She was always crocheting or knitting and all of her family and friends can find comfort in the afghans she made for them.
Laura loved the time she spent at her beach cottage in Sconticut Neck where she enjoyed entertaining her family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling and made friends wherever she went.
Laura is survived by her two daughters and sons in law, Dianne M Stenwall and her husband Anthony Fresolo of Arlington, MA and Barbara A Alves and her husband Arnold “Butch” Alves of Nashua, NH., two grandchildren, Christopher E Stenwall and his wife Gina of Jupiter, Florida, Kara M LaMarche and her husband James and her great grandsons Finn and Gavin LaMarche of Bedford, NH. as well as many nieces, nephews and godchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, Laura was predeceased by four siblings, Maria, Filomena, Joseph and Leonora.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to her loving care givers Stephanie Leite and Andreia Reis who brought great joy and comfort to her.
Services: Calling hours will be on Thursday, January 24th from 4:00-7:00 PM at Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford,MA. Her Funeral will begin in the funeral home at 9:30 A.M. with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated on Friday, January 25th at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church 230 Bonney Street, New Bedford at 10:30 A.M. Burial will take place immediately following the service at St. John’s Cemetery. Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home.