FALL RIVER - We are sad to announce that on December 18, 2024, we had to say goodbye to Eileen V. Tavares, at the age of 90. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph Tavares Jr. Born in Fall River, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Catherine (Ryan) Whipp.

Eileen was a graduate of BMC Durfee High School in 1952. She dedicated over 20 years to her career at Sears in Swansea before embracing her retirement alongside her husband and spending time in their cherished cabin in Maine. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life—baking, bird watching, solving puzzles, storm watching, and playing cards, especially with her adored grandchildren. A devout Catholic, Eileen began her faith journey at St. Mary's Cathedral, where she and Joseph were married in 1958, and later became a long-time parishioner of St. Patrick's Church in Somerset.

Family was at the heart of Eileen's life; she cherished watching her children and grandchildren excel in their chosen careers and loved spending quality time with them. While this season marks her passing, it feels fitting to remember her love for Christmas — a magical time she adored.

She was loved by many people including her children Joseph Tavares III (wife Donna) of Berkley, Kathleen Rockcliffe of Fall River, with whom she resided, and David Tavares (wife Aime) of Dighton; grandchildren Emily, Keighley, Sean, Abigail, and Erin; late brothers William, Richard and Robert Whipp; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours on Thursday, December 26th from 4-7 PM. Eileen's funeral will take place from the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 N. Main St., Fall River on Friday, December 27th here at 9:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary's Cathedral at 10:00 AM. Interment in St. Patrick's Cemetery.

To send the family Expressions of Sympathy, please click the Guest Book below. You may also light a candle in honor of Eileen. In lieu of flowers, we ask people to donate to the American Heart Association in remembrance of Eileen's husband, and the National Audubon Society, Inc, for her love for birds and nature.