Jean V. Couto

Jean V. (Auclair) Couto, 82, of New Bedford passed away at home on Monday August 10, 2026. She was the wife of the late Edward Couto.

Born and raised in Fall River, the daughter of the late Victor G. and Rosella (Fleming) Auclair, she had lived in New Bedford since 1988. She was educated at St. Patrick’s School and Mount St. Mary’s Academy.

Jean had a long and successful career in sales. She was a furniture sales representative for Mason’s of the Northeast and Modern Galleries in Fairhaven and Fall River, and an appliance and electronics sales representative for Apex in Swansea.

She is survived by her grandson, Joseph D. Frank, Jr. of New Bedford; her great-grandson, Maddox Frank of Fall River; and her siblings, Judith Covey of Virginia Beach, VA, and Susan Phipps and Victor “Skip” Auclair, both of Fall River. She also leaves her late husband’s extended family; many wonderful neighbors and good friends; and her beloved cat, Sampson.

She was predeceased by her son, Joseph D. Frank.

Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday August 17th at 10 AM at St. Stanislaus Church, 36 Rockland St., Fall River. Everyone is invited to meet directly at church. Burial will follow in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River. Visiting hours will be on Sunday August 16th from 2-5 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.