Herbert Lima

Herbert Lima, 99, of New Bedford, MA, died unexpectedly on Friday, December 12, 2025. Herbert was the loving and devoted husband of the late Clara P. (Cabral) Lima and the son of the late Antonio de Medeiros Lima and Mary Soares (Oliveira) Lima.

Born in New Bedford, MA, Herbert relocated to São Miguel, Azores, with his parents as a young toddler. At age 11, he returned to New Bedford with his mother and sister, Gilda. Herbert lived in New Bedford for the remainder of his life, working for Cornell Dubilier throughout his adult years until his retirement. He shared 60 beautiful years with Clara before she passed away in 2016. Herbert was an avid sports fan, especially loyal to the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.

Through daily treasured phone calls, Herbert and his sister Gilda shared laughter and stories, highlighting the special bond they shared, particularly when discussing baseball. Earlier in life, he enjoyed singing, playing his guitar, and harmonica, filling those around him with joy. Having been a resident of CareOne of New Bedford nursing home for the past two years, Herbert loved all the staff and enjoyed visits with his cousin, Bob. Herbert, a devout Catholic, was truly the sweetest, kindest, and gentlest person and a treasure to be around. He enjoyed dining out with family and friends, especially at Fay's, where he would look at the picture on the wall of the ship named the “S.S. Vulcania” that brought him, his mom, and Gilda back to America.

Surviving Herbert are his sister, Maria “Gilda” (Lima) Costa of Venice, FL; his godchild and niece, Mary-Ellen Costa and her partner, Kathleen Texeira of New Bedford; his niece, Susan M. Costa of Fairhaven, MA; his nephews, David M. Costa of Jamaica, VT, and Steven W. Costa of Venice, FL; and his first cousin, Richard “Bob” Anderly and family of New Bedford. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at CareOne, particularly the Acushnet unit, for their exceptional care and compassion.

Herbert's visiting hours will be held at Perry Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. His funeral will take place Thursday morning, beginning in the funeral home at 9:00 A.M. and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in Riverside Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth St, New Bedford, MA, which offers a lighted parking lot and a handicap-accessible ramp and entrance for all who wish to pay their respects.