Margaret A. Ferreira, 81
Margaret A. Ferreira, 81, of Mattapoisett, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, following her courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.
Born on January 5, 1945, Margaret was raised in New Bedford, the daughter of Clinton Rimmer and Anita (Rogers) Rimmer. She was the devoted wife of Thomas Ferreira for nearly 60 years.
Margaret grew up on Mount Pleasant Lane in New Bedford with her four sisters, with whom she shared cherished holidays, birthdays, date nights, and vacations throughout her lifetime. Her childhood home became the center of Rimmer family celebrations for decades as the sisterhood's families grew.
A proud 1960 graduate of Holy Family High School, Margaret later attended Cape Cod Community College, where she met her future husband, Tom. They soon married and began their own family story. Margaret loved the charm of Cape Cod in both summer and winter and developed a deep appreciation for the ocean and the serenity of Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. She also enjoyed spending time at the lake in New Hampshire. She shared this love through many family outings to Cape beaches and restaurants, encouraging her children and grandchildren to explore and enjoy the region she held so dear.
Friendship was something Margaret truly treasured. Her friends meant a great deal to her, and she had a beautiful way of remembering shared moments, laughter, and meaningful conversations. Her friendships were a true reflection of who she was, loyal, warm, and deeply genuine.
Margaret's career was focused in the utility industry, where she worked for both New England Telephone and Eversource Energy. She valued the relationships and opportunities this work provided, including the chance to continue her education. In 1998, while working full time and attending night classes at Stonehill College, Margaret earned her Bachelor of Arts, a milestone achievement and a special moment for her and those who loved her.
Our mum was extraordinary in countless ways, with a spirit and energy that seemed to know no limits. She could sing, play the piano, be an artisan baker, prepare gourmet meals, play tennis, run road races, and cheer us on, both on and off the field. She was our closest confidant, our spiritual pillar, and often the one who simply listened without judgment. She was the person you wanted beside you for every meaningful moment in life, and someone of whom we are incredibly proud. She loved skiing at Mt. Sutton in Canada and found great joy in hosting dinners where family and friends felt truly welcomed. She was immensely proud of her grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. She always looked forward to lunches at The Pasta House with her sisters, traditions filled with laughter and connection. She embraced life fully and, above all, treasured being with her family, which was always closest to her heart.
Margaret faced Parkinson's disease with strength and grace. Though the disease progressed, her spirit continued to shine through her bright blue eyes and her enduring love for family and friends. She was the light in our lives and will be missed dearly.
Margaret is survived by her four children: Mark and his wife Darlene of Winthrop; Jane Connolly of Sandwich; Kristen Ferreira of New Bedford; and Matthew and his wife Marisa of Richmond, Virginia. She was the proud and loving grandmother of seven grandchildren: Patrick, Sean, and Jack Connolly; Meghan Seguin-Ferreira; and Ben, Beau, and Brooke Ferreira. Margaret was predeceased by her loving husband Tom of nearly 60 years, and her son-in-law, Sean Connolly, whose memory remains a cherished part of the family.
Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 13th at 11:00 AM in St. Anthony's Church, 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
