Manuel Jacinto Tavares, age 77, of Rehoboth, MA, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 2, 1947, in São Roque, São Miguel, Açores, he was the beloved husband of Julieta M. (Brum) Tavares and the son of the late João Tavares and Maria Merces (Botelho) Tavares.

In 1964, at age 17, Manny emigrated from the Açores to Canada with his parents and siblings. He studied accounting at Sheridan College in Brampton, Ontario, graduating in 1968, and began his career at Toronto Dominion Bank in Hampton the following year.

He married the love of his life, Julie, in 1971. The couple welcomed their first son, Ken, in 1972 and soon after immigrated to Fall River, MA, to begin a new chapter in the United States.

A highly respected leader in the Greater Fall River banking and business communities, Manny held senior positions at Fall River Trust Company, Bank of Boston, Slades Ferry Trust Bank, and Rockland Trust, where he retired in 2008.

He was deeply committed to his heritage and community, serving as Corporate Vice President of the Portuguese-American Business Association. In 1995, he was honored with the Outstanding Community Service Award by the Fall River Chamber of Commerce. He also served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Southeastern Economic Development Corporation until his retirement.

Manny devoted much of his time to scouting, serving as a Den Leader for Pack 5 and Scoutmaster for Troop 303, both in Swansea, MA. Affectionately known as "Mr. T," he was a beloved mentor and role model to many young scouts. For his dedication, he was awarded the Silver Teepee Award for outstanding service to both the Moby Dick Council and Massasoit District.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Manny had a wide range of interests including woodworking, gardening, hobby farming, birdwatching, and collecting coins and stamps. He especially enjoyed working on woodcraft projects with a close circle of friends, and his children and grandchildren treasure the many beautiful, handmade gifts he created over the years—each one crafted with care and love.

Generous with his time and knowledge, Manny also helped form an investment club to share financial wisdom and support his friends in building long-term security.

In addition to his wife, Julieta, Manuel is survived by his three sons: Kenneth J. Tavares (wife Cathy) of Uxbridge, MA; Philip J. Tavares (wife Lindsey) of Barrington, RI; and Eric M. Tavares (wife Sarah) of Leicester, MA. He is also survived by his sister Maria Fatima Costa (husband Manuel), and was predeceased by his brother, John Tavares.

He leaves behind five grandchildren—Kaylee Grace, Jacob Daniel, Samuel James, William Michael, and Gabriel John Tavares—as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held from the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 N. Main St., Fall River, on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at St. John of God Church, 1036 Brayton Ave., Somerset. Interment will follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Fall River.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, May 14, from 4:00–7:00 PM.

To leave a message of condolence or share a memory, please visit the online guest book below. You may also light a candle in Manuel's honor.