New Bedford Police, Family Mourn Former Officer Who Died of COVID

NEW BEDFORD — Family, friends and former coworkers are remembering retired New Bedford police officer Jose "Joe" Correia, who passed away this week at the age of 59.

Correia died unexpectedly of COVID-19, according to his cousin Michael DaSilva.

"He was a great father, grandfather, son, cousin and nephew," said DaSilva. "He loved his job and did it with honor, integrity, pride — and that was the kind of dad he was too."

The New Bedford Police Department noted in a statement that he had been an officer with the department for 27 years, from 1993 until early 2020.

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DaSilva said that Correia leaves behind four daughters and four grandchildren, along with a brother, a sister, and a goddaughter, with whom he shared a special bond.

Police said Correia worked as a detective and as a patrol officer all over the city, but he was best known in the South End.

"He was known as a friendly face that always greeted his fellow officers with a smile or joke," read the statement.

"Joe, you will be fondly remembered by your brother and sister officers. Thank you for your service, and may you rest peacefully forever more."

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