Brenda (Burrows) Lopes

Brenda (Burrows) Lopes, a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother of five and dedicated educator, passed away surrounded by love. Brenda lived a life defined by service, perseverance, and deep devotion to her family.

A graduate of BMC Durfee High School, Brenda went on to dedicate 34 years of her career as a Special Education teacher with the Fall River School Department, where she touched countless lives through her patience, compassion, and commitment to her students. While raising her family and caring for her husband, she achieved both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees—an accomplishment that reflected her strength, determination, and belief in lifelong learning.

She was an active and dedicated member of the Westport Yacht Club and the Junior League, giving her time and energy to her community with the same generosity she showed her family.

Brenda was blessed to share 66 years of life together and 59 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Stephen Lopes. Their partnership was one of love, loyalty, and unwavering support.

Her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was giving birth to and raising her two daughters, Taryn Camara and Courtney Finnerty, whom she loved fiercely and unconditionally. She was also a cherished grandmother to five grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Brenda was the daughter of the late Dorothy (Powers) Burrows and Joseph Delma Burrows, whose values she carried forward through her own life.

In her quiet moments, Brenda found peace and happiness sitting on the beach with sand between her toes, watching the sunset in Marco Island, Florida—her favorite place and a reflection of her calm and gentle spirit.

Brenda will be remembered for her beautiful smile, strength, selflessness, intelligence, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on through her family, her students, and all those fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will be Friday, January 9, from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main St. Fall River. Her funeral will be Saturday, January 10 at 9:00 AM from the Funeral Home, with a Funeral Mass at Holy Name Church, Hanover St. at 10 AM. 

Burial to follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery, Fall River.