Germana M. (Duarte) Soares, 86, of New Bedford died Friday September 16, 2011 suddenly at St. Luke's Hospital. She was the wife of the late Joaquim Soares.

Born in Sao Nicolau, Cape Verde, she lived in Portugal before moving to Chelsea in 1975. She later moved to New Bedford where she lived for many years.

Mrs. Soares was formerly employed by Ocean Spray Cranberry Company.

She lived for her family. She loved making people happy and was always kind to others.

Survivors include three children, Maria Helena Carvalho deOliveira of Brockton, Isidoro Carvalho of Cape Verde and Carlos Carvalho of Pawtucket, RI; eleven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Her Funeral Service will be held on Monday at 10 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday morning 9-10 AM prior to the Service. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.