Ilda Custodio Mota

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ilda (Custodio) Mota, 89, of New Bedford on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at home with her loving family at her side. She was the loving wife of Leonardo P. Mota. They met in 1952 and married in 1959, immigrating to the United States in 1968.

Born in St. Michael, Azores, she was the daughter of the late Antonio and Maria (dos Santos) Custodio. Ilda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

Ilda will be fondly remembered as a soft, kind- hearted, and gentle woman. The past two years she demonstrated her strength through her valiant battle of multiple illnesses, like a true “Wonder Woman”. She was compassionate, selfless, forgiving, and a meticulous person, who always put her family first.

She loved tending to her plants and flowers. Ilda was an amazing cook and was happiest when spending time surrounded by family. She loved children and left a heartfelt impression with anyone she encountered.

Ilda was a spiritual, religious, and devout catholic. She recited the rosary and watched mass daily with her husband by her side. Her faith was an important and profound part of her life.

In addition to her husband Leonardo, she is survived by her children, Francisco (Judith) of Taunton, Leonard (Evelyn) of Acushnet, Maria of Dartmouth, John (Vickie) of Westport, Tina of New Bedford and Michael (Kimberly) of San Jose; nine grandchildren, Blaine (Jenn), Erica (Corey), Brenna (Justin), Kayla (Tyler), Hailey, Elizabeth, Isaiah (Kyleigh), Addyson and Luke; five great-grandchildren, Pepper, Emersyn, Messiah, Everly and Parker; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings Rosa, Maria, Eduarda, Humberto,Trindade and Jose.

The family would like to thank the Southcoast VNA for their exceptional care and compassion over the past four months.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, June 23, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02747. She will be laid to rest immediately following the service in St. Mary's Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.To leave a note of condolence: www.waring-sullivan.com