Joyce "Jody" (Viveiros) Heck, 59, died December 20, 2009 following a valiant fight against cancer. Born in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Carlos and Sophie (Seconda) Viveiros.
Raised and educated in Dartmouth, she graduated from Dartmouth High School. She also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Southeastern Massachusetts University in 1988.
She was a life-long member of the North Baptist Church in New Bedford and spent her working career in the human services field, most recently for People Acting in Community Endeavors (PACE).
Jody was well known for her tireless work on behalf of the folk community. She was associated with Tryworks Coffeehouse in New Bedford from its inception in 1967 eventually rising to a leadership role on its Board of Directors until its closing in 1997. She volunteered for many years with the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance and with the annual SMU Eisteddfod. She helped program the Rotch-Jones-Duff House summer concert series and emceed for Summerfest every year until she became too ill to participate.
Jody was a loving, devoted mother and friend who could always be counted on. She was strong, multi-talented and brilliant. She was a profound lover of nature and reveled in trips to her home away from home, the Berkshires. Her kindness and spirit made her truly unforgettable.
She is survived by two daughters: Alison and her husband Anthony Young of Dartmouth, and Amanda Heck of New Bedford; two grandsons, Alijah and Amias Young of Dartmouth; and several cousins. She was also the loving grandmother of the late Avery Young who joined her on December 21, 2009.
Visiting hours will be Sunday, January 3, 2010 from 3-7 p.m. at the Saunders-Dwyer Home For Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: VNA of Southeastern MA. A memorial service will be held at a later date at the First Unitarian Church in New Bedord.