Marie A. Dos Reis

Marie A. Dos Reis, 84, of New Bedford, peacefully passed away on her birthday, Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Vantage. She was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Lillian (Barboza) Dos Reis and the sister of the late Joyce Dos Reis and Michael “Mickey” Barboza.

Born and raised in New Bedford, Marie was a proud graduate of New Bedford High School. She dedicated 35 years of her career to the Acushnet Company, Rubber Division. In addition, she worked as a waitress at various Cape Verdean establishments throughout the city, where she formed many lasting friendships.

Marie had a deep love for her family. Though she never had children of her own, her nieces and nephew were truly like her own, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She was affectionately known as “Aunt Marie” to many.

Marie had a vibrant personality, both funny and serious, always ready to laugh and enjoy life. She loved her wine, doing puzzles, reading, dancing, and listening to music. Devoted sports fan, she enjoyed watching the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics, often joking that she was “sleeping with Tom Brady” as she tucked in with her Patriots blanket.

She found joy in the simple things, like feeding the seagulls that would tap on her apartment window, and traveling to California to visit her nephew Todd, where she happily “babysat” his beloved dogs, Dallas and Sparkie.

Every Tuesday, Marie gathered with her cherished friends, Marie, Charlotte, and Ginny, lovingly known as “My Girls” for evenings of Pokeno, food, and laughter. She also fondly remembered her younger days spent at Sunday dinners with Nana and Pa, filled with love, laughter, games of pick-up sticks, and her favorite Lemon Meringue Pie, as well as family cookouts at Hazelwood Beach.

During her time at Vantage, Marie became known as “The Puzzle Lady.” She shared her love of puzzles with fellow residents and staff, often teaching others and proudly displaying completed puzzles throughout the day room. Even in the nursing home, Marie remained social and spirited, enjoying her daily glass of wine, outing with friends, and special visits when Todd would travel from California to take her out.

Marie’s favorite saying, “So sad!” was often shared with a smile. She was a small woman with a big heart who faced life and its challenges with honor and grace. Her infectious smile and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. The one thing we know for sure, is that a cute guy with a bottle of wine was waiting for her at the Pearly Gates.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Vantage and Patti Martin, along with the staff and volunteers of Fairhaven Community Nurse, for their compassionate care and support.

She is survived by her loving nephew, Todd A. Dos Reis of Los Angeles; her nieces, Michelle Barboza of New Bedford, Pamela Lobo and her husband Frank of New Bedford, and Trina Ramos of CA; her great nieces and nephews Brittani Dos Reis of Los Angeles, Michelle and Vaughn Gonsalves of New Bedford, Jarel Fields of New Bedford, Cameo Lobo and his wife Jamyled of Florida, Jaxson Booker of CA; great-great nieces and nephews, Kaydence, Kassidy, Essence, Journey, AvahLina, and Jasper; and great- great- great nephew Kaydee.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Family and friends are invited to visit www.rock-funeralhome.com for service updates and to leave a tribute in her memory.