Irene Arruda

Irene Arruda, a woman whose warmth, faith, and music touched everyone she met, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, at the age of 90. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to the late Joseph and Mary (Mello) Couto, Irene lived a full and vibrant life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family. Irene was one of seven children; Dorothy Warburton (deceased),

Edward Couto (deceased), Evelyn Gauthier, William Couto, Mary-Lou McCarthy, and Lorraine Collingham (deceased).

Irene resided in Freetown and Lakeville but spent most of her life in New Bedford. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Edmond Arruda, in 2007, and by her son, Wayne T. Triggs in 1986. Though she knew the sorrow of loss, she carried on with remarkable grace, filling the lives around her with joy.

Irene leaves behind her beloved children: Brian A. Belli and his wife Cassi of Wareham, Linda M. Scanlon and her husband Paul of Wareham, and Thomas E. Triggs and his husband Robert Grijalva of Santa Barbara, California. She was a proud grandmother to Sarah Triggs and Andrew Belli and great-grandmother to Miriam, Josiah, Judah, Ezra, and Evangeline. Her family was the light of her life, and she was theirs.

In her working years, Irene brought her kind spirit and strong work ethic to her roles at the UMass Dartmouth cafeteria and the former Star Store in New Bedford. Her colleagues and customers alike remembered her for her warmth, dedication, and ever-present smile.

Music was Irene’s soul language—she found joy in playing guitar, singing, and even yodeling, bringing smiles to those lucky enough to hear her. She had a deep faith in God, a generous heart, and an enduring kindness that made everyone feel like family. Irene was truly loved by all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Irene’s life during visitation at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in New Bedford.

In honor of Irene’s giving spirit, memorial donations may be made to Compassionate Care ALS, PO BOX 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 or online at www.ccals.org.

To share a memory or tribute, please visit www.rock-funeralhome.com