Jean (Bandarra) Athaide

New Bedford – Jean (Bandarra) Athaide, age 86, of New Bedford, passed away on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. She was the daughter of the late Elsie Smith and Joseph Bandarra.

Most of her life was spent in the New Bedford area. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree for Southeastern Massachusetts University and her Master’s Degree from Rhode Island College. She began her career as a social worker with the Department of Social Services and later went to work for the New Bedford School Department as a school adjustment counselor. She spent the last 10 years as a crisis counselor at New Bedford High School.

She is survived by her son, Peter and his wife Susan of Dartmouth and their sons, Christopher of Arizona, Benjamin and his partner Liz and Nicholas and his wife Sarah of Dartmouth. Her daughter’s children, Daniel and his partner Winnie of New Bedford and Stephanie and her husband Luke of London, England and three great grandsons.

She is also survived by her brother, Sidney Smith of Easton; her sisters, Marie Pefly of California, Helen McDevitt of Colorado and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter, MaryEllen Cotter.

In accordance with her wishes, her funeral arrangements will be private. Donations may be made in her memory to the Salvation Army, 619 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA 02740.

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