Apolonia M. Baptista, 82, of Dartmouth died Saturday June 21, 2003 at the New Bedford Jewish Convalescent Home after a long illness.

Born in New Bedford , the daughter of the late Francisco M. and Maria Anna (Neves) Silva, she lived in Dartmouth for most of her life.

She was a communicant of Our Lady of the Assumption Church. She was a member of the Our Lady of the Assumption Sacred Heart Club and the Our Lady of the Assumption Seniors Club.

Mrs. Baptista was formerly employed as a secretary for Aerovox Corporation for 40 years until her retirement. She later was a secretary for PACE, Inc., and the Center for Human Services, and was a foster grandparent with Coastline Elderly Services.

Survivors include a son, Mario F. Silva of Dartmouth; and several nieces and nephews.She was the sister of the late Anna Barrows and Laurindo Mendes.

Funeral from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New BedfordWednesday June 25, 2003 at 8 AM.Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 9 AM.Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4-7 PM. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery.