New Bedford – Matilda (Reis) Fernandes, age 87, of New Bedford, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2019 at home with her family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Antonio Fernandes.
Matilda was born in New Bedford, MA to Joseph Reis and Amelia (Anacleto) Reis. She worked at Cassini Clothing in Sales and Retail and was a graduate of the New Bedford High School Class of 1950.
She is survived by her sons, Steve Fernandes and Anthony Fernandes; grandchildren, Brian and Samantha Fernandes; sister, Mariana Nunes; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was the mother of the late Richard Fernandes and sister of the late John, Frank and Manuel Reis, Cacilda Sylvia, Mary Barboza, Dorothy Martin and Emily Gonsalves.
She loved her family and was a mentor to all of us. Tillie loved her romance novels. She had a great flair and love of clothing. Tillie shared her great style and flair with everyone.
Tillie's visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, March 19 from 5:00 - 8:00 P.M. at Perry Funeral Home. Her funeral will be Wednesday morning, beginning in the funeral home at 9:45 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Julie Billiart Church at 11:00 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in Riverside Cemetery.
In Lieu of Flowers a donation can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Memphis, TN 38105
Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. New Bedford, MA 02740.