Madalena Rodrigues

Madalena M. (Mingola) Rodrigues, 94, of New Bedford died January 2, 2026 at St. Luke's Hospital after a long illness surrounded by her family. 

She was the wife of the late Joao J. Rodrigues.

Born in Brava, Cape Verde, daughter of the late Boaventura C. and Maria (Andrade) Mingola, she lived in New Bedford most of her life.

She was formerly employed as a stitcher in several local textile mills for many years until her retirement. She was known as a talented seamstress having made numerous wedding dresses, bridesmaids gowns and curtains for many people.

She enjoyed baking, decorating cakes and spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include her 2 daughters, Sandra Crowell and her husband Ronald of Dartmouth and Ana Michael and her husband Phil of Venice, FL; Crissy Rodrigues, her granddaughter who she raised; numerous beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews and Godchildren who she loved. The family would like to acknowledge Wanda Bouchard, Carmen Rodrigues and Laura Gilmore, who were more like a daughter to her and Ines Andrade who was a dear friend that would cook, visit frequently and call Madalena every day.

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful women who were her home health care givers and provided excellent care and comforted her to the end: Maria DaCruz, Mona Lisa Roderick, Nelly Velez, Jessica Dias, Sonia Collazo, Linda Gilmete and Delide.

She was the mother of the late John Rodrigues, grandmother of the late John Michael, sister of the late Lidia Silva, Bart Mingola, Manuel Mingola, Benvinda Andrade and Laura Mingola, sister-in-law of the late Lillian Mingola, who was more like a sister; and her late dear friend Maria "Cidalia" Vieira.

Her Funeral will be held on Wednesday, January 7th at 8:30 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her Funeral Mass at St. Lawrence Church at 9:30 AM. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, January 6th from 4-7 PM.