Betty Ann Fernandes transitioned on Friday September 22, 2023. Born in New Bedford on June 29, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Anna (Lopes) Grace and Christian Grace.
A lifelong resident of the city, she worked in the textile and service industries in several capacities over many years before her subsequent retirement at the young age of 70. Her work ethic was impressive. She was a true professional who excelled, was well liked, and respected by her colleagues.
She will be missed dearly by many who crossed her path during her life journey, and it brings her family comfort knowing she is finally at peace with Jesus, and with family by her side.
She deeply loved her children and extended family. They meant the world to her and she supported them throughout her life. She made it a priority to travel to various celebratory events in support of her children and her grandchildren: military boot camp graduations, a Navy carrier returning from deployment, college graduations, and trips abroad. She loved visiting places like London and Singapore, but her trips to Monterey, California were her favorite–spending time with grandchildren at the lake, feeding the birds, and enjoying the year-round cool weather.
She was direct and articulate in her communications, the voice inflections, changes in tone and pitch allowed her to convey a more precise and impactful message– ensuring it was understood, and hopefully well received. A ‘Straight No Chaser” approach from a different perspective, with honest feedback.
She was extremely passionate about and loved spending time on interior design projects around the home. Her attention to detail and her “eye” and creative flair were evident in every project she pursued and completed. Betty Ann enjoyed the simple things in life like sitting on her porch relaxing. She also loved listening to rhythmic and melodic Cape Verdean music with lyrics sung by her two favorite Cape Verdean artists Bana and Cesária Évora, the “King and Queen of Morna.” She also loved jazz and would play it incessantly, passing along her love for music to her boys. They enjoyed heavy doses of Miles, Dizzy, Coltrane, and crooners like Ella, Billy, Lena, Nat, and her favorite, Johnny Mathis.
She prioritized and valued higher education instilling in her boys and anyone who would listen. She promoted education as a key element in life’s journey and would open doors, leading to a more rewarding, fulfilling, and successful life.
Survivors include her sisters Cynthia Santos, Brenda Duarte, and Donna Grace; son Welsey Grace and his wife Pauline Oh; four grandchildren Laura, Serena, Steffan, and Davis Grace, and a multitude of caring family members to include loving cousins, nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her son Glenn A. Grace, her sister Sharon Magnett and brother James Grace.
Her public burial will be held on the 28th of October at 9:30 AM at St. John’s Cemetery, followed by a private celebration of life luncheon at the Century House in Acushnet. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, if you chose, please donate in her honor to any charity of your choice. For an online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.