João "John" Madeira

João “John” Almeida Madeira, 61 years old, passed on peacefully at his home on the evening of July 8, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose kindness and willingness to help others touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born in Água de Pau, São Miguel, he immigrated to the United States as a young child in 1972 and settled in New Bedford with his family. He was the beloved son of Natália Almeida Madeira and the late Serafim de Matos Madeira. John always carried a deep love for São Miguel, the island where he was born and where his roots began. He cherished the memories and traditions, of his homeland, and the culture and values of the Açores remained an integral part of his identity.

John was a skilled builder and carpenter, known for his ability to complete projects with speed and precision. His incredible work ethic and natural intuition for helping and supporting others gained him the nickname “Superman,” as he was known to many. A dedicated member of the Stackhouse Club, he took great pride in volunteering at the Festas do Espirito Santo, always eager to lend a helping hand whenever asked. He loved gathering there with friends to play dominos or card games like “Sueca” while enjoying a glass of Macieira and a Marlboro cigarette.

John was a lifelong sports enthusiast who remained an avid fan throughout his life. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on Benfica or New England sports teams and always enjoyed the friendly banter and spirited debates that came with rooting for his favorite teams. John especially loved watching and playing hockey and golf, and fishing. Whether playing, watching, or talking sports, John found great joy in sharing those moments with family and friends.

John's infectious smile, sense of humor, quick wit, and generous heart made him someone people naturally gravitated toward. He had a way of making others feel welcome, and never hesitated to help others when asked. His kindness and selfless spirit left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

John took great pride in his family. He is survived by his sons, Jon and Joseph Madeira, and his grandson, Luca, who brought him much joy. He is also survived by his loving mother, Natália Almeida Madeira; his beloved siblings, Amélia Almeida and her husband, José O. Almeida, José F. Madeira and his wife, Lucia Madeira, and Carlos A. Madeira and his wife, Gayle deMello Madeira; along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure the memories they shared with him. Some of his family's most cherished memories are of Christmas Eve gatherings filled with music, singing, delicious food, and laughter.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, July 13, 2025, from 5 to 8pm in the Perry Funeral Home at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, Massachusetts. His funeral will take place on Tuesday, July 14th beginning in the funeral home at 9:00am and followed by A Mass of Christian Burial at 10am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 230 Bonney Street, New Bedford, Massachusetts. Interment will follow at New Bedford Rural Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the Madeira family kindly asks that donations be made in John's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.