Helen R. (Gomes) Barboza, 54, of New Bedford, passed away Saturday, April 9, 2011 after a long battle with Leukemia. Born in New Bedford, the daughter of Antone M. and Joaquina Gomes, she was a lifelong resident of the city. In addition to traveling the world with her family, there were many day and weekend trips in search of new knitting stores, books and yarn. From Italy to Arizona, if there was a knitting store Helen and Ron found it.
Throughout her life Helen’s spirit reflected the brightness and warmth of the sun. She never let the dark days burnout her spirit and light. As an avid knitter, she was the proprietor of Yarn in the Barn. Helen took great joy in handcrafting beautifully knit one-of-a-kind sweaters, scarves, and more. She was passionate about teaching others to knit, especially young children.
Helen remains alive in the heart of her loving husband Ronald Richard Barboza and their four children Ronald Richard Barboza Jr. of Houston, TX, Barika Lillian Barboza and Bianca Christina Barboza, both of New York City, and Adia Kendra Barboza of Philadelphia. She was the proud grandmother of Camraun and Samara of Houston, TX.
Other survivors include a brother, Antone M. Gomes of Fairhaven; a sister, Donna Solomon of North Carolina; an uncle Joseph Gomes, several aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford Thursday, April 14th at 8 AM. Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at 9 AM. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours Wednesday, April 13th from 4-8 PM.