Joao Luiz Martins Laranja

Joao Luiz Martins Laranja, age 76, of Dartmouth, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital. He was the beloved husband of the late Maria (Ferreira) Laranja.

Born on April 7, 1949, in Sao Miguel, Azores, Joao was the cherished son of the late Virginio Bernardo Laranja and Maria Merces (Pedro) Martins Laranja. Growing up in the picturesque Azores, he carried the warmth and spirit of his homeland throughout his life.

Joao dedicated a significant part of his career to the local fishing industry, working as a fish cutter for a local fish house. His compassionate nature led him to become a Foster Parent for the State of Massachusetts, where he provided love and care to children in need, leaving a lasting impact on their lives. Joao's life will be celebrated and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his sisters, Isabel Cordeiro and her husband Bernardino, Lucia Enrique and her husband Rui, and Natalia Bernardo. Also mourning his loss is his brother-in-laws, Joāo Ferreira, Jose Luis and Frank Ferreira; sister-in-laws, Lucy and Ana Couto, and his two nieces, Erica Ferreira and Jaime Ferreira, who he raised and will remember him fondly.

Joao was predeceased by his brothers, Jorge Bernardo, Manuel dos Santos Bernardo, and Antonio Jose Bernardo; his mother and father-in-law, Isabel Costa Ferreira and Jose Ferreira; as well as his nephew, Cliff Raposo. Their memories continue to resonate within the hearts of those who knew and loved them.

A funeral service in honor of Joao will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025. Visiting hours and the funeral service will take place at Perry Funeral Home from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M., with a service during this time. Burial will immediately follow in Rural Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, MA.