Jose Goncalves

Jose C. Goncalves, 83, of New Bedford passed peacefully at home on Sunday, January 17th surrounded by his wife and children. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lucilia Goncalves, his 10 children: Elsie McCarty, Natalie Guidry, Al Goncalves, Ester Perry, Frank (Chico) Goncalves, Alda Goncalves, Maria Reidy, Suzie Goncalves, Jose (Joey) Goncalves Jr., and Michelle Perry and his 21 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his granddaughter Courtney Guidry. He was born in Valdegas, Portugal, the youngest of 7 siblings, and moved with his wife and 4 children to New Bedford in 1967, but returned to his homeland often. He was a joyful, sociable man who enjoyed singing, dancing and playing his harmonica and accordion or simply made due with a pot & spoon to join in the fun. He was often the life of the party, very charismatic, funny and generously welcomed friends and family into his home often to enjoy food, drink and a good story or two. He was also a member of the Portuguese American Athletic Club of New Bedford, where he enjoyed afternoons of card playing or watching a good soccer game. Upon retirement, he spent the majority of his time in his beloved Portugal enjoying a simpler life with family and friends… planting a vegetable garden, making wine, tending to his livestock and hunting. But most recently, at his home in New Bedford, he enjoyed spending quality time with his children, grandchildren and beloved dog, Snoopy. He will be greatly missed by all that were blessed to have known him. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Southcoast VNA and Hospice Attn: Community Affairs 200 Mill Road Fairhaven, MA 02719. Visiting hours will be held on Friday January 22nd from 8AM-10. His funeral mass will be 10:30am at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. Burial will follow at the Pine Grove Cemetery. All attendees are required to wear face coverings and practice social distancing. Attendance at the funeral home is limited. Guests are asked to pay their respects and depart to allow the next guest to enter. Thank you for your cooperation.