Jose "Pireza" Pereira DeAvila

Jose "Pireza" Pereira DeAvila, age 102, of Dartmouth, MA, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Brandon Woods of Dartmouth on January 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of the late Albertina (Andrade) Avila.

Born on November 1, 1923, in Faial, Azores, Jose was the beloved son of the late Cecilia deJesus (Branco) Avila and Francisco Pereira Avila. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to his work as a carpenter, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his craft and always being ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends in need. Jose was also well-known for his athletic prowess; he was a celebrated soccer player in the Azores, competing passionately for his cherished team, Angustias Atletico Clube.

Jose's legacy is carried forward by his loving children, Francisco Avila and his wife Christine, Maria Fatima Almeida, and Scott Joseph Avila and his partner Mindy Williams. He took immense joy in his role as a grandfather to Sandi Semedo, Nancy Pereira, Jay Avila, Keith Avila, Quintin Avila, Nolan and Camden Avila, as well as a great-grandfather to Tahlib, Caleb, Jahleil, Andon, Derek, Alyssa and Hazel. Each of these individuals were fortunate to experience the warmth and kindness that Jose exuded throughout his life.

He is also survived by several nieces and nephews whom he held dearly in his heart. Jose was preceded in death by his siblings, Antonio, Francisco, and Manuel Avila, along with Helena da Costa, Maria Eugenio, and Delfina Dias.

Jose will be remembered not only for his numerous contributions to those around him but also for the love and joy he shared throughout his remarkable life.

Jose's family and friends will gather to honor his life during visiting hours held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Perry Funeral Home from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. A funeral service will take place on Friday morning, beginning at 9:00 A.M. in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial will follow at St. John’s 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.