Mary Ellen Soares

Mary Ellen "Mollie" (Pennington) Soares, 85, passed away on Monday February 16, 2026 peacefully at home surrounded by her family. She was the wife of the late Robert K. Soares.

Born in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late John J. and Sarah R. (Thatchell) Pennington.

Mollie was formerly employed as the head of transportation for Medeiros Bus Company and American Eagle Bus Company until her retirement.

She enjoyed refinishing furniture, reading, gardening, cooking and baking, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children, Vickie DeSouza and her partner Rachelle Deneault, John DeSouza and his wife Lori, Barbara Tripp and her husband Russell, and Michael DeSouza; her daughter-in-law, Jennifer Randall; her siblings, Lenora Goldrick and Rev. J. Joseph Pennington; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her son, SSG Timothy DeSouza.

A private service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Fairhaven. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Lighthouse Animal Shelter, 596 Hathaway Rd., New Bedford, MA 02740. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.