Jose DeBairos Braga

Jose DeBairos Braga, age 69, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Jose was the beloved husband of Bernadette L. (Silveira) Braga, sharing a life filled with love, devotion, and support.

Born on December 27, 1955, in Santa Maria, Azores, Jose was the cherished son of the late Manuel Braga and Rosa (Bairos) Braga. His legacy extends beyond his family; he had been the Proprietor of J. Braga Excavation for many years, gaining respect and admiration from his colleagues and clients alike.

Jose's commitment to his community was evident through his service in the National Guard, where he dedicated 22 years of his life. This period reflects not only his sense of duty but also his loyalty to his country.

Jose will be remembered for his wit, strength, and unwavering love for his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those he touched.

He leaves behind a family that loved him dearly: his wife, Bernadette L. Braga; his daughters, Jennifer L. Cruz and her husband Peter Cruz of New Bedford and Stephanie A. Alves and her husband Jason Alves of Acushnet; and his cherished grandchildren, Lucas Alves, Charlotte Alves, and Juliette Cruz. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Antonio Braga and his wife Tina Braga of New Bedford, whom he held dear, as well as several nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.

Jose was predeceased by his brother, Jose Fernando Braga, whose absence he felt profoundly.

Visiting hours and funeral services to honor Jose’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Visiting hours will take place at Perry Funeral Home from 8:00 A.M. to 9:30 A.M., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in South Dartmouth Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jose’s memory to St. Jude Research Children’s Hospital.

The care of these arrangements has been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth St., New Bedford, MA 02740. At the rear of the funeral home, an ample lighted parking lot awaits, along with a handicap-accessible ramp entrance equipped with an automatic open door, ensuring ease for all who wish to pay their respects.