Carmen Menendez Hernandez

Carmen (Menendez) Menendez Hernandez, 72, of New Bedford, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. Born in Manti, Puerto Rico, Carmen was the beloved daughter of the late Carlos and Isabela Menendez. Carmen was the beloved wife of the late Duilo Elvan Colon Perez.

Carmen was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy and purpose was her family. She was the kind of person who took care of everyone and everything, often putting the needs of those she loved before her own. She was the rock of her family – a steady presence, a good listener, and a source of comfort, strength, and unconditional love.

She carried a deep and unwavering Christian faith throughout her life. She found comfort in church, Christian music, and prayer, and her faith was reflected in the kindness and compassion she showed to others. She had a gentle heart and a way of making people feel heard, welcomed, and cared for.

She found happiness in the simple and beautiful things in life: the warmth of the sun, bright sunflowers, her favorite color purple, a good cup of coffee, fresh fruit, especially mangos. She enjoyed going out to eat, including trips to IHOP, cooking for the people she loved, and sharing meals and memories around the table.

Carmen loved to travel and experience life with her family. Some of her happiest memories were made in Mexico, on cruises, at Disney, and in the beautiful place where she was born, Puerto Rico. She cherished holidays, especially Christmas, when her happiness seemed to shine even brighter. She had a way of making celebrations feel warmer simply by being there.

Those who knew Carmen will remember her not only for the things she did, but for the way she made people feel. She was loving, generous, patient, joyful, and kindhearted. She gave her time freely, listened without judgment, and made caring for others look effortless. Her presence brought comfort, and her love created a sense of home wherever she was.

Carmen is survived by her 4 daughters Rosa Colon and her husband Jose Antonio Domingos of New Bedford, Carmen Maria Colon Menendez of New Bedford, Mildalia Colon Menendez and her husband Louis Adorno of New Bedford, Heidy Colon Menendez and her husband Ferdinad of New Bedford; 5 best friends Esmerelda, Ada, Carolina, Gustavo, and Lillian Bettencourt; 17 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her 3 sisters and 1brother.

Her funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 10:00AM in the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. Burial at Pine Grove Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited. Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 from 4:00PM to 8:00PM. Feel free to wear something purple in her honor.

For online tributes, visit our website at www.rock-funeralhome.com