David T. Rocha, 86
David T. Rocha, 86, of Mattapoisett died Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Tobey Hospital after a long illness. He was the husband of Elvita (Baptista) Rocha, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage.
Born in New Bedford, son of the late Joseph and Maria (Taft) Rocha, he lived in New Bedford and Mattapoisett for most of his life.
He honorably served in the United States Navy from 1963-1966.
David graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1961 and later graduated from Cranbrook Academy of Art with a Master of Fine Arts degree in 1968.
He was formerly employed as an art teacher with New Bedford Public Schools for many years until his retirement.
David was a very talented artist who especially enjoyed creating pastel paintings. He loved to travel, was a great cook, and enjoyed going out to dinner.
He is survived by his wife, Elvita; his son, Sean Rocha; his daughter, Kali Rocha and her husband Michael Krikorian; his sister, Sandra Ayres; two grandchildren, Barlow and Savria Krikorian; and many nieces and nephews.
His Funeral Service will be held Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 10 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in St. Anthony's Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 PM. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
