Maria Mendes

Maria Joaquina deJesus (Ventura) Mendes 81 of New Bedford, died on Thursday January 7, 2010 at St. Luke's hospital.She was the widow of Octavio Mendes and daughter of the late Rosa deJesus Ventura. She was born in Melo-Nabainhos, Portugal and had lived in New Bedford since 1970. She was a communicant of Our Lady of Fatima church. Mrs. Mendes was formerly employed as a stitcher at Calvin Clothing until her retirement. She enjoyed going to Active Day Care in New Bedford. Survivors include her sons, Antonio Mendes and his wife Barbara of New Bedford, Victor Mendes of New Bedford, Paulo Mendes of Lisbon, Jorge Mendes and his wife Eirwen of Wales, United Kingdom; her daughter Tara Lynn Mendes-Bressette and her husband Russell of New Bedford; her sister Paixao Mimoso of Nabainhos; 11 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Maria Magina, Augustinho Ventura and Antonio Ventura. Her funeral mass will be said 10am Monday at Our Lady of Fatima church. Visitation will be Sunday 5-8pm and burial will be in St. John's cemetery.