Helena A. Dias

Helena A. "Dada" (Alves) Dias, 83, of New Bedford passed away Monday June 8, 2026 at home surrounded by her family. She was the wife of Julio Dias.

Born in Brava, Cape Verde, the daughter of the late Fidelio and Caroline (Tavares) Alves, she lived in New Bedford since 1971.

Dada was a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish. She was one of the founding members of Grupo Coroa do Espirito Santo and the Portuguese Charismatic Prayer Group. Her faith led her in many directions. She was also a member of the parish's Portuguese Choir and Saint Peter-Saint Paul Grupo.

When it came to the parish's fundraising activities, you could always find Dada assisting with the bake sale and helping with the Church's Christmas Bazaar. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Julio; her daughter, Elizabeth Dias Tavares; her brother, Antonio T. Carreira; her grandchildren, Nadia Tavares-Odhiambo and her husband Stephen, Keiyna Silveira, and David Silveira, Jr.; her great-grandchildren, Elijah, Avery, Kayson, and Gianna; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Caroline Silveira.

Her funeral will be held on Friday June 12th at 10:30 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 11:30 AM. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Thursday June 11th from 4-8 PM.