BERKLEY - Surrounded by loved ones, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, Ernestine Tavares peacefully passed away at home on September 21, 2025, age 77. She was the beloved wife to the late James Tavares. Born in Akron, Ohio she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Alma (Arruda) Case.

She was a proud graduate of Diman Regional Technical Institute - School of Practical Nursing in 1972, and went on to pursue her passion for nursing as a Licensed Practical Nurse before furthering her education at Cape Cod Community College, where she became a Registered Nurse in 1988. Ernestine dedicated her life to nursing, steadily serving in the specialty of Respiratory Nursing and Visiting Nurse. Her compassion and commitment to her patients were felt by all, and she was known for going above and beyond to ensure their comfort Throughout her career, she was honored with the award of Nursing Excellence in year 1992, a testament to her dedication and compassionate care. Beyond her professional life, she was a vibrant member of the Red Hat Society founder and Queen of the Fancy Felines chapter. She also enjoyed gardening, where she could be found riding her tractor enjoying the outdoors. She enjoyed listening to opera, dancing and going out to eat and spending time laughing and enjoying her family and friends. She cherished spending time with her grandson talking and going on adventures. She loved the companionship of her beloved dogs, Joy and Lexi, and also Drake who passed before her but always held a special place in her heart.

She survived by her daughter Kelly Tavares of Berkley; grandchild Christian Tavares( Fiancé Emily Hague); siblings: Rex Case of Johnston, RI, Geneva Soares of Somerset and the late Dolores Leeman, and several nieces and nephews.

She was blessed with the friendship of her best friend, Joyce O'Brian and shared a close family bond with Todd Martin and his wife Deborah Martin, and also a close bond with George Moriera and his wife, Natalie. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Her funeral will take place from the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home 1521 N. Main St. Fall River on Friday, September 26th here at 9 A.M. followed by service held at the Union United Methodist Church in Fall River at 10 A.M. Interment in MA National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. Calling hours on Thursday, September 25th from 4-7 P.M.

To send the family Expressions of Sympathy, please click the Guest Book below. You may also light a candle in honor of Ernestine or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.