Shirley May Barboza

Shirley May Barboza (1946–2023)

People will often purport that the world is a better place for having had someone take up space for what is geologically a brief flicker of time. But in the case of Shirley Barboza there is irrefutable evidence in her family, her friends, her church, and her patients and in the generosity she bestowed upon them. Just as the sun rises and sets each day on the Earth, so too must the sun set on each of our lives. Shirley May Barboza, 76, of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, died at Charlton Memorial Hospital on September 2, 2023.

She was born in Dartmouth in 1946 to Anthony Avila and Angeline Perry who raised her alongside her other five siblings. She attended Dartmouth High School where she met the love of her life, Frank Barboza. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married soon after meeting.

Shirley and Frank’s children meant the world to them. Jonathan and Daniel fondly remember traveling cross country for camping and fishing.  The family’s travels took them to such places as Wyoming, South Dakota, Florida, the Smokey Mountains, New Hampshire, Maine, and Canada. Together they explored mountains, lakes, rivers, and caves.

Though she loved knitting, crocheting, and camping, Shirley’s favorite role was that as a grandparent. She treasured her time with her grandchild, Viktor Barboza. She played a central role in raising him for the first 5 years of his life and would see him daily. Undoubtedly she is left an indelible impact on him through the time she spent, the games she played, and the things she taught him.

Shirley had a soft spot for her furry friends, treating each and every one like the valuable family member they were. Throughout her life she had a variety of pets including rabbits, dogs, and cats. Her favorite pet of all was her energetic purebred black Labrador, Trudy. Trudy, ever the extroverted canine, enjoyed lying next to Shirley in the evenings to keep her company.

Shirley was passionate about her role as a home health aide for Community Nurse Home Care of Fairhaven, working for the company until her retirement. She was remembered for years after by her coworkers who remarked on her strong work ethic and caring nature.

Shirley was an active member of Dartmouth Bible Church, devoting her time and energy as a member of the deaconate, a leader in the AWANA children’s club, and the women’s service team among various other roles. The church was much more than a place of religion for Shirley. It was also a place where she fostered many friendships, and gave back to the community and the world. Her role as a missionary took her to places such as Alaska and China.

Shirley will always be remembered for her generosity with her time and resources, and the way that she always was willing to lend a helping hand whenever needed. We couldn’t have asked for a better parent, grandparent, and contributor to the community. We will miss Shirley every day. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her.

Shirley was preceded in death by her late husband, Frank, and two of her sons Michael and Matthew.  She is survived by her sons Jonathan and Daniel, as well as her siblings Jenny, Pricilla, and David.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Dartmouth Bible Church, 52 Morton Avenue, Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Immediate family members will be present for a private burial on a date to follow.

Arrangements are placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. New Bedford, MA 02740. Please see our website: www.perryfuneral.com for condolences.