Richard S. Estrella of New Bedford, MA, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
Below, the simplest tribute: the truth of a life as it was lived.
Some legacies are not written; they walk the earth, named after those who came before.
Richard S. Estrella, 75, of New Bedford passed away May 3, 2026 at St. Luke's Hospital surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and sweet memories. He was the husband of Jane E. (O'Brien) Estrella. Born in New Bedford, son of the late Donald and Mercedes (Arruda) Estrella, he was raised in Dartmouth and lived in New Bedford most of his life. Formerly employed as a teacher in the New Bedford School system, he owned and operated Richard's Auto Sales for over 30 years. Rich enjoyed everything to do with his grandchildren, who meant the world to him, and he loved watching them grow and blossom their individual talents. An avid cook, Rich enjoyed breaking bread and sharing his culinary delights with family and friends. There was always room for one more at his table. His favorite past-times included playing cribbage and watching the Boston Celtics. Survivors include his wife, Jane; his 4 children, Melanie Mariotti of Franklin, Bethany Estrella and her fiancé Darren Carrozzella of New Bedford, Matthew Estrella and his wife Karen of Somerset, and Paul Estrella and his wife Cathy of Rochester; his uncle, Manuel Arruda of New Bedford; 6 grandchildren, Olivia Mariotti, Joshua Mariotti, Juliet Estrella, Benjamin Estrella, Connor Estrella and Josie Estrella; and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Donald Estrella and Robert Estrella.Richard's funeral will be held on Saturday, May 9th at 8 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by his funeral mass at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church at 9 AM. Visiting hours will be on Friday, May 8th from 4-7 PM.Richard received exceptional care during his 32 day stay in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at St. Luke's. The compassion, attentiveness, and clinical expertise shown by every member of the team provided Richard and family with comfort and confidence.In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's memory can be made to Southcoast Health (Surgical ICU): Southcoast Health 141 Page StreetNew Bedford, MA 02719508-973-6014TAX ID: 22-2592333
