Henry V DeJesus, 101, of Dartmouth died April 23, 2026 at home with his wife, Shaleen Barnes, by his side. Born and raised in New Bedford, he was a man who worked hard, lived large, and enjoyed life, never letting his blindness or hearing loss or anything else get in his way.

He and his late wife, Ora Mae (Demoranville) DeJesus raised their three children in Lakeville: Mark DeJesus,Ora MaeTorres, and Henry DeJesus Jr.

Henry was always ready to implement his next idea or project. He started a local crumpet business, owned and operated nursing homes, worked in the mills, hosted very big parties, owned a restaurant, played a good game of cribbage, graduated from high school at 42, dominated a pool table, cared for years for a small group of men who had emotional and mental challenges, had a penchant for a fireplace, absolutely loved dogs, and was still chopping wood at 98 years old. He was a Master Mason for 73 years at the Mayflower Lodge in Middleboro

With his second wife, Shaleen Barnes, he lived in Maine, Arizona, and Prince Edward Island, Canada, eventually returning to Dartmouth. Their evenings were spent having dinner and playing cribbage in front of the fire after a day working in their vegetable garden.

He is survived by his wife Shaleen, his three children, his two step daughters, Christy and Heather Barnes, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Other special people in Henry's life were JoAnn Kendrick, Donna Torres, Steve Russo, and the Bishop and Ellis families of Prince Edward Island. Many thanks to his caregivers and hospice nurse.

Raise a glass of Sam Adams to health, wealth and happiness, and tap once on the table for Henry, who is no longer with us.

Drive carefully, Henry, and remember your lemon drops.

His Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.