Jennifer M. Bretal

Jennifer Marie Bretal, 37, of New Bedford passed away suddenly on Saturday September 27, 2025 at St. Luke's Hospital.

Jennifer was a beautiful soul taken far too soon. She was a devoted mother to two precious boys, just 3 and 5 years old, who were the absolute light of her life. She poured her heart into raising them, always putting their happiness and needs above all else.

Jennifer had a warmth and spark that was unforgettable. She was funny, thoughtful, and full of life - the kind of person who made everyone feel seen and loved. Whether it was cooking her boys' favorite meals or planning something special just to see them smile, she lived every moment for them.

Outside of motherhood, Jennifer was passionate and full of spirit. She loved the freedom of riding motorcycles with her friends, feeling the wind on her face and the road beneath her - it was one of the ways she truly felt alive. She was also a wonderful aunt who adored her nieces and nephews, always showing up with love, laughter, and homemade treats.

In her final act of love and generosity, Jennifer made the decision to give life to others by becoming an organ donor. Even in passing, her compassion and selflessness continue to make an impact, especially to the five donation recipients who received her gift of life.

She is survived by her beloved sons, Asher and Jeremia; her parents, Mildred Bretal-Paiva, Michael Paiva, and Beadi Lozada; her siblings, Shayna Bretal Miller and her husband Antione Miller, David Jorge and his wife Keren Jorge, Evan Bretal-Paiva and his girlfriend Abigail Harris, Tyler Bretal-Paiva and his fiancée Crista Soares, and Jayanie Bretal-Paiva; her nieces and nephew, Jazmyn Rivera, Ava Jorge, and Jason Johnson-Rivera; her special uncle, Yancy Bretal; and many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her brother Jose Molina-Lozada.

Her funeral will be held on Monday October 6th at 9:30 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at St. James Church at 10:30 AM. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Fairhaven. Visiting hours will be on Sunday October 5th from 1-5 PM.