Irene (Vital) Saltzman, 78, of Dartmouth, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020 after a brief illness. She was the wife of Michael Saltzman and the daughter of the late Manuel and Belmira Vital.

Irene is survived by her husband, two precious cats, Molly and Charlie; two sons, Joey Mello and Jeffrey Mello of New Bedford; two sisters, Elise Barboza and her husband Richard and Lorraine Vital, both of Dartmouth. Irene was predeceased in death by her beloved brother, Donald Vital and her beloved daughter in law, Amber Mello. She was the grandmother of Camden, Jordan Mello and Amanda Mello of New Bedford; three great-grandchildren, one godchild, Sandra Barboza; brother-in-law Henry Saltzman and his wife Patricia and several nieces and nephews.

Irene was a graduate of Our Lady Mount Carmel and New Bedford High School. She worked as a teacher’s aide at Hannigan and Parker Schools. She also worked at Zayre and Ames until her retirement. Irene was an avid reader and enjoyed knitting with her sister Elsie. The height of her activities was shopping, which she enjoyed immensely.

At this time, the family would like to thank Beacon Hospice, an Amedisys Company of Fall River; Dr. Jennifer Kabak who cared for Irene unconditionally. Their kindness and compassion extended to Irene and her family improved the quality and dignity of her life so well deserved.

At the family’s request in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Arthritis Foundation, 1255 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30309.

There will be no wake or viewing. In accordance with her wishes, she was cremated.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020 at 11 a.m. in St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Road. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, New Bedford. 

Arrangements are in the care of Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Road. For online guestbook, visit www.waring-sullivan.com.