Joao L. Ponte, 60, of Fall River, passed away at home unexpectedly on Monday, July 29, 2024. Born in St. Michael, Azores, a son of the late Mariano DaPonte Barreira and the late Ines de Jesus (Carlos) Barreira, he lived in Capelas for 16 years then moved to Somerville, MA, in 1980 and was employed at a factory in Cambridge.

Later moving to Fall River, Joao eventually became a talented auto body repair technician, working at Fernandes Auto Body, Medeiros Auto Body, and then at Carl's Collision Center, on Bay Street, for many years until he became ill.  He loved fishing, playing soccer, guitar, being a handy man, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by: a daughter, Jackalyn Ponte of Fall River; seven siblings, Ines Camara of Taunton, Gabriela Benjamin of Westport, Laura Soares of Fall River, David Barreira of Fall River, Idalina Campos of Fall River, Simon Barreira of Bristol, RI, and Mariana Vincelette; and many nieces and nephews. Joao was predeceased by his son, Corey Leite, and his brother, Mariano DaPonte.

His Funeral Service was held on Sunday, August 4th, during a visitation period in our Fall River Chapel. A private cremation followed. In lieu of flowers, all are asked to please consider making a donation in Joao's memory to a charity of one's choice.

Family members are always grateful for relatives and friends wishing to make in-person expressions of kindness and support. If you were unable to do so, because of health concerns or any other reason, all are urged to express their sympathy online or by mail. To ensure that said condolences and/or sympathy cards reach the family, please always make sure that submissions online are made directly through the funeral home's website (www.silvafaria.com) and not through a third party. Thank you!