Norma Avila

Norma was born in New Bedford to Olga (Medeiros) Roderick and Manuel (Mike) Roderick. She was a graduate of New Bedford High School and worked at Kinyon Campbell Business School in the Accounting Office until her retirement in 1984.

In 1949, she married the love of her life and her best friend William Avila of New Bedford, who passed away in 2002.

She was a communicant of St. Mary’s Church after being a parishioner at St. John the Baptist Church for many years. While at St. John’s, she was a very active member of the Couple’s Club, the Children of Mary Sodality and the Parish Council. She loved participating in Girl Scouting, serving as a leader in her adult years. The Bishop presented her with the “Our Lady of Good Council” award for her dedication to her parish and to scouting.

She was a former member of the St. Hedwig’s, Golden Ages and American Portuguese War Vets Social Clubs, as well as the Mt. Carmel Senior Club.

In addition, Norma loved to do needlepoint, crosswords and most importantly, she shared in her husband’s love of music.

Her greatest enjoyment was being with people especially her friends and family. She leaves behind many loving friends that she has known since her childhood.

Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the love of her life. They provided her with countless happy moments.

She had a wonderful sense of humor and the best memory in the family. She would spend several hours recounting stories and recalling every little detail. It was impossible for the rest of the family to match her amazing memory and she took great pride in that fact.

Survivors include her loving children, daughter Patricia Avila of Falmouth and her wife Pat Chery. Her son Michael W. Avila of Orlando, Fla. and his wife Joyce Arbucias. Loving and dedicated grandchildren: Gabriella Juliet of Orlando, Fla., Kristin Avila of Fall River and her partner David Rego, Michael P. Avila of Falmouth and his partner Hala Stewart and her children Rowan and Conrad Stewart. Her beloved great grandchildren are James W. Avila of Falmouth and Analiese Hoffman of North Carolina.

Her visitation will be hold at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd. New Bedford, MA on Wednesday, January 25th from 4-7pm. Flowers are welcome. The Funeral Service, also at Rock Funeral Home will be on Thursday, January 26th at 9:30 am followed by burial service at Pine Grove Cemetery. www.rock-funeralhome.com

Our family would like to thank the staff at Taber for their loving care and for treating her as one of their family during her stay there. A special thank you to Dr. Matthew Messina, who she adored and trusted. He lovingly cared for Norma and was there to support the family for more than 15 years. Donations may be made to the Royal Taber Activity Fund in her name.