Joyce A. Leite

Joyce A. Leite, 82, of New Bedford, passed away at home on August 14, 2026. Born on December 1, 1943, Joyce was raised in Fall River, and following her marriage to Abel, made her home in New Bedford. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Sarah (Arruda) Lima.

Joyce was a graduate of B.M.C. Durfee High School and attended Bristol Community College. She built a steady and dedicated career as a shipping coordinator at Raytheon, where she worked for over 30 years until her retirement.

Joyce was married to Abel C. Leite for 48 years. She leaves her children, Sandra Perry and her husband Jeff; Leslie Amaral; Paul Estrella and his wife Cathy; and Nick Jeronymo and his wife Kelly Matias. She was a devoted grandmother to Kayla Perry, Connor Estrella, and Josie Estrella.

Joyce is also survived by her beloved nephews, Keith Ratcliffe and Kevin Ratcliffe; her brother-in-law, Butch Ratcliffe; her sister-in-law, Judith Syra and her husband David; and her nieces, Brandy Syra and Brea Valle. She was predeceased by her sister, Sandy Ratcliffe.

A woman of strong faith, Joyce was known as a thoughtful listener—someone others could count on anytime. Her home and her heart were often centered on family gatherings and dinners together, where her love of cooking and her gift for bringing people close were always on display.

Joyce enjoyed traveling and took pleasure in the everyday joys of shopping, puzzles, especially sudoku. She also took pride in looking her best, remembered by many as a true fashionista. She dearly loved her dog, Lily, who brought her companionship and comfort.

Visiting hours will be held at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Her Funeral will take place from the funeral home on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 9:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. John Neumann Church, 157 Middleboro Rd, E. Freetown at 10:00 am. Burial is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joyce's memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.