New Bedford - Dolores (Silva) Augustine, 89, of New Bedford passed away on May 20, 2020. She was the loving wife of the late John F. Augustine Jr, to whom she was married for 33 years.
Born in New Bedford, the daughter to the late Joaquim and Mary Silva, she lived most of her life in New Bedford. She was a devote Catholic and was a member of St. Julie Billiart Church.
Dolores had many roles in her life. As a child of the depression she was required to leave school early to support the family household through working in a textile mill. She later met her husband John and assisted in the operation of Augustine’s Turkey farm. But her most significant role was that of a mother. She nurtured, listened, mentored, supported her children in their daily experiences. Dolores was also a motivator, developed structure and accountability that gave her children a strong set of values. Her sacrifice for the family will not be forgotten.
Later in life she cherished the experience of being a grandmother. She assisted in the development of her grandchildren. By this time her strict and structured ways had melted away as she spoiled her grandchildren with toys, candy and love. When challenged by her children about the lack of structure and methodology they were affectionately told “mind your business”.
Dolores was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and was blessed to see the ‘home town team” win four World Series. We are confident she will share this experience with John since he was unable to witness the celebration because his life span fell within the 86-year World Series drought.
Dolores was a ball of energy. She was passionate, caring and thoughtful. Dolores displayed an innocence about her that lasted until the day she died. Jesus Christ said” in order to see my Father’s Kingdom you must see it through the eyes of a child”. We know today she is in his kingdom.
Dolores is survived by; sons John F. Augustine III and his wife Holly of Lakeville, Joaquim R. Augustine and his wife Mia of North Carolina, Jeffrey Augustine of Texas, Jerel Augustine and his wife Jodi of New Bedford; daughters, Susan A. Caron and her husband Andre of New Bedford and Melissa A. Dement and her husband Daniel of New Bedford. She had 9 grandchildren: Andrew J. Augustine, Evan T. Augustine, John E. Augustine, Joshua D. Augustine, Nicholas A. Caron, Faith N. Augustine, Nathan J. Caron, Tyler J. Dement and Connor D. Dement. She is survived by her sister Patricia Moinherio. She is predeceased by her sisters Geraldine Wood, Jacqueline Mederios and MaryAnne Moura.
Dolores’s funeral services will be private for immediate family, due to the current mandated restrictions on public gatherings in regards to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Arrangements are placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home 111 Dartmouth St. New Bedford, MA 02740. Please see our website: www.perryfuneral.com for condolences.