Daniel R. Bettencourt, 53, of New Bedford died Tuesday March 23, 2004 at St. Luke's Hospital after a long illness.

Born in Peabody, the son of Daniel R. and Christine (Woodbury) Bettencourt, he had lived in New Bedford for most of his life.

He was a communicant of St. Mary's Church.

Mr. Bettencourt was formerly employed as a social worker with the Department of Social Services until his retirement.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Survivors include 2 sons, Andrew Robert Bettencourt and Matthew Daniel Bettencourt, both of New Bedford; a daughter, Anne Marie Bettencourt of New Bedford; and a sister, Donna Bettencourt of the North Shore.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday March 27, 2004 at 9 AM in St. Mary's Church, Tarkiln Hill Road, New Bedford. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours are omitted.