Deolinda was the daughter of the late Aniceto and Angelina (Correia) Silva, and the beloved wife of the late Eliseo Santos.
In her working years, Deolinda was employed at US Ring Binder and Alden Shoes.
Family was the center of Deolinda’s life, and her love was expressed in the countless ways she nurtured those around her. She found joy in music and dancing, and she was known as a wonderful cook whose meals gathered people together. Her care for others extended beyond her own household; she was always willing to lend a helping hand, offering warmth and consideration with a generosity that never sought attention.
Deolinda is survived by her children: Dianela Soares and husband Emidio; Ildavina Barbosa and husband Jose; Dominga Tavares and late husband Henrique; Fatima Correia; Jackie Faria and husband Jorge; Crisanto DosSantos and wife Pamela; and Antonia Farias (who she raised as a daughter).
She is also survived by her grandchildren: Troy Tavares and wife Cristina; Jessica Tavares; Eydie Matteos and husband Aaron; Helder Soares and significant other Jessica Costa; Adam Soares and significant other Kelsie Martins; Valdir Correia and wife Tameka Monteiro; Zelito Silva; Manuel Silva; John Rosario; Caitlyn Faria; Eathan Faria and significant other Alexa Vargas; Qimmah DosSantos; and Tajarae DosSantos; as well as eighteen great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Deolinda was preceded in death by her siblings, Pedro, Julio and Autilio Silva, Irene Mendes, and Maria Correia Silva; and grandchildren, Ivandro Correia, Linda Barbosa and Jorge Correia.
Visiting Hours will be held at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Her Funeral will be held from the funeral home on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 9:00 am followed by a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 47 S 6th St, New Bedford at 10:00 am. Burial will take place at Rural Cemetery, New Bedford.
