Sylvia A. (Hales) Fales, 82, of Mattapoisett died peacefully on November 19, 2025 at the Sacred Heart Home in New Bedford. She was the loving wife of Alan F. Fales, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage.
Known for being playful, joyful, and forever young in spirit, Sylvia lived a life filled with kindness and generosity. She had an unwavering devotion to her family and a deep love that will be forever missed.
Born in Wareham, daughter of the late Mary (Sylvia) Hales, she lived in Mattapoisett most of her life. She enjoyed growing up on her grandparent’s dairy farm and spending time with her many cousins, aunts and uncles.
Sylvia went to Fairhaven High School and was a proud graduate in 1960. She always spoke fondly of her years spent there. She went on to earn a certificate in hairdressing from the Wilford Academy in Boston and was registered with the Massachusetts Board of Hairdressers. Alan built her a mini salon in their home where she enjoyed styling the hair of family and close friends throughout the years.
Before settling back in Massachusetts, Sylvia and Alan spent their first year of marriage in southern California. Knowing they wanted to return home to start a family, they bought a 1962 red Corvette and made the long drive back. The car became their pride and joy, bringing them countless happy memories cruising around town and participating in the local Corvette club.
Sylvia had a bit of a competitive streak. After watching her daughters play in the town summer softball league, she decided to become a coach and dedicated 4 years to the success of the blue team. She was an excellent tennis player as well and was a force to be reckoned with as doubles pair with her close friend Nancy York.
A true social butterfly, Sylvia loved people and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Her warm and friendly nature made her a natural fit for waitressing and she flourished in several local establishments.
She was also a very creative person, something that came naturally to her. Her love of crafting led her through many hobbies over the years, each one reflecting her creative spirit.
After retirement, she and Alan enjoyed spending winters in Florida and took two memorable road trips across the United States. She also cherished her time at their summer cottage at Crescent Beach, hosting Fourth of July parties, soaking up the sun on the deck and collecting beach treasures.
She loved being a grandmother and her time spent with her twin granddaughters was precious to her. Their laughter, their emerging personalities and the moments they shared remained close to her heart.
Survivors include her husband; 2 daughters, Amelia “Amy” Walsh and her husband Sean of Sharon, MA and Shannan Dowler and her husband, Damion of Chesapeake Beach, MD; and two grandchildren, Addison Dowler and Avery Dowler.
Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 29th at 10:00 am in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Road (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. Her family will receive guests on Saturday from 9:00 – 10:00 am prior to her service. Burial will follow in St. Anthony’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Friends of the Mattapoisett Council on Aging. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
