Natalie J. Simmons

New Bedford – Natalie J. (Fonseca) Simmons, age 92, of Dartmouth, MA passed away after a period of declining health on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospital with her loving family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Gilbert Simmons.

She was born in New Bedford, MA and was the daughter of the late Antone Fonseca and Cizaltina (Martin) Fonseca. Natalie had been a graduate of New Bedford High School and later went on to work as a cashier for 37 years in the New Bedford High School Cafeteria.

Natalie is survived by her daughter, Deborah Vaughan and her husband Steven Vaughan of Dartmouth; her grandchildren, Ryan Vaughan, Matthew Vaughan and Patrick Vaughan; great-grandchildren, Jack Vaughan, Forrest Vaughan and Grant Vaughan; brother-in-law, Edward Sylvia of Acushnet; sister-in-law, Veronica Coelho of Dartmouth; godchildren, John Coelho and Linda Stevens; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her late siblings, her twin sister, Nancy Sylvia, Frank Fonseca and Bernice Bartholo.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Autumn Glenn Assisted Living for their kindness, compassion and wonderful care that they showed Natalie over the years.

A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date. Burial will be private. 

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