Jose J. Pires, 80, of New Bedford died September 20, 2011 at home after a long illness.
Born in Brava, Cape Verde, the son of the late Jose J. and Maria (Fortes) Pires, he lived in New Bedford most of his life.
Mr. Pires was formerly employed as a merchant marine with Exxon Mobil for 37 years until retirement.
He was a member of the Bisca Tournament Club.
Survivors include his son, Joseph Pires and his wife Valarie of Rochester; a daughter, Fatima Miranda of Miami, FL; his longtime companion, Maria Zinha Tavares of New Bedford; a brother, Veriato Mendes of Pawtucket, RI; a sister, Alice Goncalves of Pawtucket, RI; 3 grandchildren, Matthew Pires, Sydnee Pires and Joslyn Pires.
He was the brother of the late Julia Pires.
Private arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Home For Funerals, 495 Park St. New Bedford.