Joseph J. Avila Jr.

Joseph J. Avila, Jr., 86, of Dartmouth, passed away Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at CareOne of New Bedford. He was the devoted husband of Dorothy (Costa) Avila with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.

Born in Dartmouth and a lifelong resident, he was a son of the late Joseph J. Avila, Sr., and Mary (Motta) Avila.

He proudly served in the United States Coast Guard.

Mr. Avila was a pilot and commercial fisherman and served as president and CEO of Potpourri Marine Enterprises. He was an innovator, always had cutting-edge technology on his boat, and was one of the first people to use an airplane to spot swordfish back in the sixties.

Joseph cherished spending winters in Florida, indulging in fishing, sharing jokes, and savoring delicious meals. His musical talents shone through as he played the mandolin and harmonica in multiple bands. He was a loving family man, known for his compassionate soul and kind heart; his absence will be profoundly mourned.

Surviving in addition to his wife Dorothy are his children, James Avila and his significant other Lisa of Wareham, Shelley Olm and her husband Daniel of Pomfret Center, CT, Marc Avila of Dartmouth and Scott Avila and his wife Barbara of Dartmouth; two sisters, Rosalie, “Cookie” Baptiste and Cindy Merrill; thirteen grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter-in-law, Donna Avila, his siblings, James, Shirley, Shirley, “Ti Firls” and Betty Avila, and a great-grandchild.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, October 29, 2023 from 2-5pm in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Rd., Dartmouth. Funeral Mass, Monday, October 30, 2023 at 10am in St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Rd., Dartmouth. Burial in South Dartmouth Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dartmouth School Music Association, PO Box 80019, Dartmouth, MA 02748-0019. For online tributes, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com