Lawrence P. Mendez, 74, of New Bedford died Wednesday May 25, 2016 at St. Luke's Hospital after a long illness.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Pedro and Marie Alice (Burgo) Mendez, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
Mr. Mendez was formerly employed as a maintenance mechanic for Johnson & Johnson until his retirement. He had also previously worked at Ocean Spray for many years.
An accomplished drummer, Larry was a member of the New Bedford Musicians Hall of Fame. He played for many years as a member of his father's band, "The Antones," and his brother's band, "The Golden Clefts."
He is survived by his brother, Donald A. Mendez of New Bedford; his sister, Joan Pina of East Taunton; and many nieces and nephews.
He was the brother of the late Gilbert Mendez, Sr. and Allan Mendez.
His Funeral will be held on Wednesday at 8 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 9 AM. Burial will be in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4-8 PM. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.