João R. Vieira

João R. Vieira, 92, of New Bedford passed away Thursday August 20, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was the husband of the late Joana "Gorda" (DePina) Vieira.

Born and raised in Brava, Cape Verde, the son of the late Regina Vieira, he lived in New Bedford since 1979.

João was formerly employed as a press operator at Eastern Sportswear until his retirement. While in living in Cape Verde, he assisted his cousin Eduardo Camilo in operating his store in Nossa Senhora do Monte for 24 years.

João was an active member of the Portuguese Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he served as a deacon. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his produce with anyone who visited his home. He loved to tell stories and be around his family and friends. He was known by some as "a living library" with his great knowledge on a wide variety of subjects. He was very skilled at many things.

He is survived by his children, John J. Vieira and Anita R. Grimes; his adopted daughter, Angela Ribeiro; and his siblings, Artur Vieira, Samuel Vieira, and Sara Martins. He also leaves numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Brittany Grimes and Lindsey Beikes, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his son Arthur D. Vieira, and his sister Iva Lima.

His funeral will be held on Thursday August 27th at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford followed by his funeral service at the Portuguese Seventh-day Adventist Church, 413 Rockdale Avenue, New Bedford at 10 AM. Burial will be in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday August 26th from 4-7 PM.