João Martins

João Esebio Martins, 73, of Fall River, passed away February 22nd, 2026, at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston.

    Born in Ponte Delgada on the island of São Miguel in the Azores, he was a son of the late Manuel Martins and Ofelia (Ponte) Martins.

    João served as a merchant marine in Portugal as well as serving his time in the Portuguese Army, he also reminisced about his time spent as a bartender.

    Later in his life, he worked at Tony’s Bakery located in Fall River, Massachusetts for 25 years where he was known as João “dos anels”. João was known for his love for flea marketing, his generosity to those in need, his frequent attendance at local Portuguese restaurants, and his love for Sunny Delight. If there was gossip on the streets, João would be sure to spread it.

    João was the brother of the late Deodato C. Martins. João is survived by his siblings in Canada as well as the Azores. He also leaves behind a secondary family he formed at Tony’s Bakery that included Jeremy and Michelle Rioux, as well their son Andrew Rioux whom he saw as an honorary grandson.

    His committal service will take place, Thursday, March 26th at 12 PM at Notre Dame Cemetery, in Fall River.