Lawrence "Larry" Joseph Oliveira, 80
Lawrence "Larry" Joseph Oliveira, 80, of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, in the comfort of his home and surrounded by his family.
Born on March 25, 1945 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to John Oliveira and Celina Amarello Oliveira, Larry grew up in the south end of New Bedford with a strong faith, loyalty to his family, and a sense of purpose that would define every chapter of his life. He graduated Holy Family High School in 1962 and earned his undergraduate degree from Stonehill College in 1966. He continued on to Georgetown University, where he received his DDS in 1970, and in 1972 completed his orthodontic studies at Boston University. Larry later returned to BU as a teacher in their orthodontic clinic - a testament to both his expertise and his commitment to giving back to his profession. Larry went on to establish a thriving practice in New Bedford and Mattapoisett that brought beautiful, healthy smiles to countless families across the region.
Larry built something truly remarkable in Mattapoisett - not just a home, but a life full of meaning, laughter, and generosity. He was devoted to his wife of over 50 years, Charlotte (Green) Oliveira of New Bedford, and together they created a family legacy that will echo through generations. He was a lovingfather to three sons. They and their spouses are Dr. Neil and Elizabeth Oliveira of Mattapoisett, Drs. Kevin and Tristi Oliveira of Marion, and Mr. Steven and Hon. Caroline Oliveira of Mendham, NJ. His greatest joy may well have been his ten grandchildren Ryan, Luke, Joshua, Leah, Grady, Charlotte, Henry, George, Alexandra, and Thomas, each of whom knew firsthand what it meant to be unconditionally loved and supported. He is survived by his siblings Mrs. Terry Gaffney and her husband Jim and Msgr. John Oliveira. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Celina Oliveira, and his sisters Celina and Gloria.
A devout Catholic and proud parishioner of St. Anthony's Church in Mattapoisett, Larry's faith was a quiet but constant presence in his life. He gave generously of his time and talent to his community, serving on the board of Nativity Preparatory School in New Bedford and on the boards of several community banks. He was active in many organizations within Mattapoisett, and those who worked alongside him knew they could always count on his steady hand, honest counsel, and thoughtful leadership.
Those who had the privilege of calling Larry a friend would describe him, without hesitation, as a man of high standards who never needed to announce them because he lived them. Larry would do anything for anyone, at any time, without a second thought. He treated every person he met with genuine respect. Larry always enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially on the golf course. He loved the game and cherished both the competition and the memories made...as long as he kept the score and all bets were settled before anyone left the course!
Though he never skied a slope or took to the water himself, he took enormous pride in making sure everyone around him could. He owned a ski house in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire and kept multiple boats - not for himself, but for the sheer joy of watching his family make memories. That was Larry: always giving, always providing, always quietly making the lives of others a little fuller.
There will be a Celebration of Life held at The Golf House Restaurant at The Bay Club in Mattapoisett on Thursday, March 26th from 4-7pm. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 27th at 10 AM in St. Anthony's Church in Mattapoisett, please meet directly at church.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Nativity Preparatory School in New Bedford, MA - Donate - Nativity Preparatory School New Bedford
Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
