Joseph Bettencourt

Rhode Island – Joseph Bettencourt, age 71 of New Bedford, passed away on Sunday, February 5, 2017, at Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Manuel Jose Oliveira and Maria Vieira Bettencourt. He was the godson of Francisco and Angelina Bettencourt. He is survived by his three sisters, Maria Angelina Machado, Eulalia Moniz, and Ruth Machado. He is also survived by 14 nieces, 5 nephews, 14 great nieces, 19 great nephews, 2 great, great nieces and 2 great, great nephews.

Joseph was born in the Acores on July 12, 1945. He was a quiet, simple man but nevertheless, a man who made his impact with honesty and courage. In his early years, he served in the military and was stationed in Thailand during the Vietnam conflict. Upon his return home, he became the proud owner and operator of Goulart Square Bakery in New Bedford. He eventually moved on to the public sector and became a correctional officer for the Massachusetts Department of Correction, and was assigned to the Bridgewater Correctional Complex, in which he spent a lengthy career until his retirement.

He was a loving, devoted brother who spent his later years with the enjoyment of watching the growth of his many nieces and nephews who always brought a smile to his face.

A life removed too soon. Yesterday, a young man who was a loving brother, and best friend, to today, a painful void in all our lives.

His funeral will be Friday beginning in the funeral home at 8:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel at 9:00 AM. Burial will follow at Rural Cemetery. VISITING HOURS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED. FUNERAL WILL TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY AS PLANNED. Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth Street, in New Bedford, MA.