Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late Manuel and Helena Sylvia, she had resided in Dartmouth for over 40 years before moving to Fairhaven 5 years ago.
She was a graduate of New Bedford High School, class of 1955 and a communicant of St. Mary’s Church in Dartmouth.
Mrs. Lopes had worked in the school cafeterias at Dartmouth High School then DeMello Elementary School for over 20 years, retiring as manager in 1999.
She was a member of the St. Mary’s Ladies Guild, the American Legion Auxiliary #459 and the 40&8 Veterans Cabane. Barbara was an avid reader, enjoyed to travel and loved spending time with her grandson Bryan whom she adored.
Her family includes two daughters, Robin A. Lopes of Fairhaven and Susan A. Lapp of Idaho; her grandson Bryan A. Hancock of Fairhaven; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings, Laura M. Robinson, Mary Malecek, Leonard, Kenneth, Manuel, Joseph, Frederick and John Sylvia.
Her Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at 10 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church, 783 Dartmouth St., Dartmouth followed by burial in St. Johns Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Stroke Association, 300 5th Ave., Suite 6, Waltham, MA 02451-8750. For online tributes please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com
