New Bedford - Raymond Cabral of New Bedford, Nantucket, Florida and Fall River was born on Jan 16, 1929 and passed away Saturday, March 27, 2021 at the age of 92. He was the son of the late Manuel and Sophie Mello Cabral and brother to the late John Cabral. He was quite the character and was widely known throughout the New Bedford and Nantucket areas.
He volunteered to joined the Merchant Marines at the age of 16 during WWII. When he returned home he married his childhood sweetheart and love of his life, the late Estelle V Alves. They have 3 children together, Raymond and Stephen of Mattapoisett and Michael of Fall River.
They had 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. They were the owners of Ray-Stels Beauty Salon in Dartmouth for many years. He mentored many aspiring hairdressers throughout the years. He had several boats which he appropriately named “Pincurl”. He passion of the ocean and boating was passed on to his children and grandchildren. He was a member of the Coast Guard Auxillarary in Fairhaven. He was also the Assistant Harbor Master for a time in Nantucket.
He was on the committee to build Bishop Stang High School. He was also very active at St John the Baptist Church in New Bedford. He was the President of the Mass Cosmetologist. Also President of the Exchange Club which ran the New Bedford Scallop Festival for many years. On Nantucket he ran his own island tour company called Adventure Tours. He did have the gift of gab!
He retired to Florida and later in life moved back to Fall River to be closer to his younger son, Michael who he loved dearly. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to his caretaker, Melissa Pavoa of Fall River. She was by his side for the last few years and his window to the world especially during Covid.
Per his wishes he will be cremated and buried privately at St. John's Cemetery in New Bedford.
Rest in Eternal Peace, Raymond.
Arrangements are placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. New Bedford, MA 02740. Please see our website: www.perryfuneral.com for condolences.