Antonio Tavares, age 88, of Dedham, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on March 9, 2026. He was born on February 12, 1938 in Porto, Portugal, the son of the late Laurinda and Antonio Tavares.
Antonio proudly served in the United States Army. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, and deep devotion to his family. He was the beloved husband of the late Christine Tavares and was predeceased by his brother Joseph Tavares.
Antonio is survived by his cousin Maria Gomes of Arlington, who was like a loving sister to him. He was the devoted father of Michael and his wife Carolyn Tavares, Lisa and her husband William Bartiet, and Jennifer and her husband Shawn O’Brien.
He was a proud and loving grandfather to David Tavares, Michael and his wife Bridget Tavares, Kevin and his wife Hailey Tavares, Steven Tavares, Brian and his wife Haleigh Tavares, Kayla Bartiet, Julia Bartiet, and Benjamin O’Brien.
Antonio was also the cherished great-grandfather of Derek, Nicole, Grace, Joseph, Emily, and Elaina Tavares.
He also leaves behind his caring and devoted home health aide Ann Joyce of Dedham, whose compassion meant so much to him and his family. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Joan Tavares and Regena Fitchett.
A visitation will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-cannon Funeral Home, 456 High St, Dedham on Wednesday, March 18 from 8:30-9:30am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Dedham at 10am (accessible parking in the rear of the church.) Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Antonio’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.