Leonell “Leo” M. Barboza, 91, of Westport died Sunday, November 7, 2010 at Highlander Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Fall River. He was husband of the late Delina “Lil” (Pacheco) Barboza.
Born in Berkley, son of the late Carlos M. and Rose (Bento) Barboza, he had lived in Westport and Dartmouth for most of his life. In the 1950’s, Leo opened up “Leo’s Esso Station” on Route 6 in N. Dartmouth. Business was good and he expanded and opened “Leo’s Used Cars” at the same location. Leo could tell what was wrong with your vehicle just by listening to the engine idle. Known as an honest businessman, people returned to buy their second and third cars from Leo’s. He tinkered with cars well into his 80’s and was very proud to still have his license at age 91. He shared his love of automobiles with his grandsons and generations of local mechanics. Mr. Barboza was a former member of the Used Car Dealers Association and a former member of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 914, New Bedford.
Survivors include 3 daughters: Alicia B. Hall of Prince Frederick, MD, Elizabeth A. Pond of Fall River and Carol A. Miller of New Bedford; 2 brothers: Charles Barboza of Westport and Gilbert Barboza of CA; 2 sisters: Beatrice Hurley of Westport and Agnes Nelson of MO; 7 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
He was brother of the late John Barboza, James Barboza, Annibal Barboza, Palmira Costa and Delphine Cardoza.
Funeral to which relatives and friends are invited will be Wednesday, November10, 2010 from the Potter Funeral Home at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. George Church, Westport at 10:30 A.M.
Calling hours Tuesday 2 – 4 & 6 – 8 P.M.
Interment in Notre Dame Cemetery, Fall River.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Highlander Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 1748 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720.