Joao L. Avelar

New Bedford – Joao L. Avelar, age 95, of New Bedford passed away on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at St. Luke’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary (Xavier) Avelar.

Joao was born in Portugal to the late Maria Julia and Jose Jacinto Avelar. He had worked as a landscaper for Pereira’s Landscaping.

Joao is survived by his daughters, Tina Furtado and her significant other Brian Granfield, Teresa Avelar-Tavares and her husband Gilberto Tavares, Adelina Winfield and her significant other Michael Dube, Esmeralda Avelar and her significant other Edward Arruda, Celina Avelar-Fortes and her husband Louis “Buster” Fortes; his son, Jose Avelar and his wife Filomena; 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; his brother, Jacinto Avelar; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by several brothers and sisters.

Joao’s Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 10:00 A.M. Everyone is kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will immediately follow at St. John’s Cemetery.  Visiting hours will be private for family only.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford MA.