Joao Batista

Joao Batista, age 96, of New Bedford passed away Sunday, July 19, 2020 at Saint Luke’s Hospital. He was the beloved husband of the late Ana G. (Cruz) Baptista with whom he shared 67 years of marriage.

Born in Peirezes, Portugal, a son of the late Joaquim and Isabel (Pinto) Batista.

Joao was employed by John I. Paulding in New Bedford and Shawmut Mills in Stoughton. He was a very religious man and communicant of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Parish. Spending time with his family and grandchildren meant the world to him. He enjoyed biking and soccer and will be deeply missed by those he loved.

He is survived by his loving children, Daniel Dias and his wife Lena of Shelton, CT., Rosa Dias and her husband Julio of Milford, MA., Joaquim Cruz and his wife Lucia of Portugal, Joe Batista and his wife Melinda of Ludlow, MA., Manuel Batista of New Bedford, Maria Julia Monteiro and her husband Tony of New Bedford, John Baptista and his wife Amy of Mattapoisett and Michael Baptista of New Bedford; sixteen grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Miguel Batista, Maria Batista and Abilio Batista.

Private arrangements are in the care of ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. In-lieu of flowers, contributions in Joao’s name may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452 or www.alzmassnh.org To leave a note of condolence please visit our website at: www.rock-funeralhome.com