EAST FREETOWN - It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Irene (Costa) Dutra, age 99, on August 16, 2026, peacefully at home surrounded by her loving daughter Teresa and her husband, whom she lived with for the past 2 1/2 years. She married the love of her life, Manuel Dutra Jr, on July 1, 1950 at St. Michael's Church and were happily married for 76 years. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, and warmth. Irene and her husband shared a beautiful life together that began with love at first sight when they met at Cabral's Farm. They went on to build a loving family with five children, two sons and three daughters, as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born in Fall River, she was the daughter of the late Constantino and Cecelia (Pereira) Costa, on March 17, 1927, grew up with a strong sense of family and kindness.

Irene began working at Harlee at age 16 and later worked at several local sewing shops before retiring. She enjoyed dancing, music, traveling, playing cards, bingo and billiards, and taking trips, especially to New Hampshire. She spent ten years living in California before returning to Fall River.

In their later years, she especially enjoyed spending time with her husband and friends at the South Main Senior Center and remained active in the community. She was a devout Catholic and loved praying the Rosary and her faith in God was very strong.

Her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother brought her great joy. She lead by example with unconditional love, patience, and grace. Every quiet visit, family dinner, and holiday was made brighter by her presence. Her wisdom lives on in the many lives she touched.

She is survived by her children Manuel J. Dutra of Fall River, Teresa Beland (husband Roger) of E. Freetown, Leonard Dutra (fiancé Dawn) of Assonet, Louise Dutra of Fall River; 10 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter Lori Ann Tavares and many late siblings.

Her funeral will take place from the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home 1521 N. Main St. Fall River on Monday, August 24th here at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial St. Bernard's Church at 10:30 A.M. To send the family Expressions of Sympathy, please click the Guest Book below. You may also light a candle in honor of Irene or make a donation to the Fall River Council on Aging.