Emilie M. (Curtis) Benoit, 68, of New Bedford passed away at home on Monday February 17, 2025.  She was the wife of the late Paul Bedard and Michael Benoit.

Born in Boston, the daughter of the late Edmond and Thelma (MacBeth) Curtis, she lived in New Bedford for the past 40 years.

Emilie was a valued member of her community and well known throughout the city. She had previously worked at the Opportunity Center, now called Work Inc., where would do piece work jobs with her fellow individuals. She was always delighted to receive her paycheck. She also had been a volunteer at PACE and the Third District Court in New Bedford. Emilie had also attended and participated in the CCI/Community Connections, Inc. program in Fairhaven and the La Bella Vida Adult Day Program in Dartmouth, before becoming a valued member of the LifeSteam Community.

Very independent-minded and determined, Emilie was a petite woman with "a can't stop me attitude." She had an infectious sense of humor and vibrant personality. Some might say the funniest person they knew. Emilie lit up any room she entered by turning it all the way up. She made everyone feel welcomed and happy with her heart of gold.

She enjoyed participating in various activities such as playing cards and BINGO, making puzzles and crafts, scratching lottery tickets, and enjoying a nice cup of coffee with friends. Emilie loved cats and had a small collection of cat pictures that she would often pull from her purse and show off to all who were interested. She took pride in the embellishments she put around her apartment when she was living independently with her brother Eddie. Together they worked to live important, meaningful lives bringing great joy to so many others.

Emilie loved her friends and staff at her LifeStream Maple Street home. She enjoyed late night parties that consisted of a snack and a movie at midnight with her staff that she developed unforgettable relationships with. She was a beloved sister and friend who will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her loving brother, Edwin Wilbur Curtis, and a wide circle of friends.

Her visitation will be held on Friday March 7th from 10:30-11:30 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her funeral service at 11:30 AM.  Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven.  In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to LifeStream, Inc. (for the Maple Street residents' activity fund), 13 Welby Rd., New Bedford, MA 02745. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.