Thomas M. Ferreira, 82

Thomas M. Ferreira, 82, of Mattapoisett, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025.

Born on November 30, 1942, Tom was raised in New Bedford, the son of the late Manual B. Ferreira and Mary (Ornellas) Ferreira. He was the devoted husband of Margaret (Rimmer) Ferreira for nearly 60 years.

Tom's childhood in New Bedford was filled with good-natured fun-and the occasional bit of mischief-while his parents worked full-time. He and his lifelong friend Bob shared many adventures, some of which landed them in just enough trouble to become great stories later on. Those early years shaped his easygoing nature and the man he would become.

A proud 1960 graduate of New Bedford High School, Tom went on to attend Cape Cod Community College, where he met Margaret and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

After marrying in 1966, Tom and Margaret settled back in New Bedford. Tom worked full-time during the day while taking night classes, determined to support his new wife and their growing family. He earned his degree in education from Boston State College and returned to New Bedford High School-this time as an educator-where he discovered his true calling. He dedicated decades to the New Bedford Public School System, guiding and encouraging students as they pursued their goals and carved out their own paths to success.

In 1973, Tom realized his dream of living near the ocean when he and his family moved to Mattapoisett Neck Road. Tireless and hardworking, he provided for his family in every way he could. A skilled handyman, he tackled car repairs, plumbing issues, and carpentry challenges with confidence. After long days at work, he still made time to throw a football in the yard, attend every high school game, and create unforgettable family memories. Summers and winters brought ski trips to Mont Sutton, sailing on Buzzards Bay, and the ongoing adventure of boat upkeep. Tom ran competitively in local road races, loved cooking hearty homemade meals, and appreciated a good red wine shared among family. Family was at the center of everything he did-a gift he passed on to his children and grandchildren.

After a dedicated 40-year career in education, Tom retired and embraced the joy of simply being with family. He celebrated birthdays and holidays in Mattapoisett, traveled to Cape Cod and beyond to watch his grandsons' hockey and soccer games, and explored beaches, mountains, and vineyards throughout Virginia. He treasured quiet moments at the lake in New Hampshire, afternoons apple picking, restful days in ski lodges, and cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins-often with a cold beer in hand in the small, cozy family den crowded with the people he loved most.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Margaret and their 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. He was the proud and loving grandfather of seven grandchildren: Patrick, Sean, and Jack Connolly; Meghan Sequin-Ferreira; and Ben, Beau, and Brooke Ferreira. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, Sean Connolly, whose memory remains a cherished part of the family.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 24th at 11:30 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.