Patterson, Neilda J. (Lopes), passed away on February 8, 2026. She was 97 years old.

Born in Boston to Thomas and Josephine (Gurrith) Lopes, Neilda's early years in Dorchester were filled with the comforting aromas and bustling energy of her parents' establishment, Tom's Delicatessen. Her spirit, evident even then, helped shape the warm, community atmosphere that the deli was famed for.

Neilda's voice, often described as both outspoken and strong, carried the melodies of laughter and genuine conversation. It was that same resonating voice that caught the attention of her future husband when he persistently and charmingly asked her out in the very deli where she spent her childhood. Although she would later face the hardship of losing him too soon, Neilda's resolve only grew, as she faced life's challenges with an admirable strength and tenacity.

Maintaining the family tradition of hard work, Neilda embarked on her career at Morse Shoe in Canton. As a devoted mother, she initially worked "mother's hours," but her exemplary work ethic soon propelled her into a full-time role. Her journey took her from Dorchester to Watertown, and eventually to Avon, where she spent about 25 years contributing her talents and dedication.

When Neilda was just 16, her father passed away, leaving a gap in her family that she stepped up to fill. Her supportive nature was a testament to her loving character, as she helped her mother raise her younger brother Freddie, as her older brothers were away serving in the war. It was these early life experiences that instilled the values she carried forward: compassion, resilience, and a depth of familial love that knew no bounds.

To have known Neilda Patterson was to know a woman of substance, one who embraced life with passion and warmth. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched, a perpetual testament to a life well-lived. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her infectious humor, generous heart, and indomitable spirit. Her life story continues to inspire and reminds us all that the power of a strong will and a kind heart can move us through life's greatest challenges.

Loving mother to Janice A. Cafarella and her husband Mark of Marshfield. Cherished Nana to Nicole Cafarella of Marshfield. Sister to the late Thomas Lopes and his late wife Frances “Frannie”, the late Arthur Lopes and his late wife Marie, Eleanor “Ellie” Stanislovitis and her late husband George of Bourne, and the late James “Freddie” Lopes. Aunt to Patricia “Pat” Locke, Stephen Stanislovitis, Stephanie Stanislovitis, and Michael Stanislovitis.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 3-7 PM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home SOUTH WEYMOUTH at 809 Main Street (Rte 18 opp. So. Shore Hospital). A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, Weymouth at 10:30 AM on Monday, February 23, 2026. Burial in Blue Hill Cemetery, Braintree. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Neilda may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 and/or Epilepsy Foundation of New England, 175 Cabot Street Suite 301, Lowell, MA 01854.