Joaquina R. “Jackie” Gomes, daughter of Mary Mattos, passed away at the age of 95 after a brief illness on May 1st, 2023 at 1:43pm. Jackie was a lifelong resident of the New Bedford area who was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. Jackie was known for her stunning white hair and generous heart. She was a strong-willed, wise woman who knew what she wanted and enjoyed a life of rich relationships.
Skilled and detailed hand work in sewing was a part of Jackie’s life from a young age. She loved hand sewing aprons and creating baby blankets. It was an activity that brought her joy as she continued it throughout her entire life. She created impeccable hand-embroidery items, loved by all that received them as gifts. ‘Grandma‘ had a faultless memory for details surrounding her life, the lives of her children, grandchildren, and all of those she loved.
She is survived by her son, Antone “Tony” Gomes and his loving companion Paula Faye; daughter Donna Solomon, her sons-in-law Ronald Barboza, Sr. and Bruce Duarte Sr.; her sister Elsie, her thirteen grandchildren, Liesa Duarte Williams, Bruce Duarte Jr., Joey Duarte, Terri Duarte, Kelly Joyner, Ronald Barboza Jr., Barika Barboza, Bianca Barboza-Keith, Adia Rich-Barboza, Tyler Gomes, Kyle Gomes, Audrey Art, and Kyle Perry; 25 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her husband, Antone M. Gomes, daughter Helen (Gomes) Barboza, four brothers, Al, Leo, Matt, and Enos, brother-in-law Joe and son-in-law Philip Solomon.
Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 16th at 8 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 9 AM. Burial will be in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Monday, May 15th from 4-8 PM. In honor of Jackie, please wear something with the color Red to the services. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.