NEW BEDFORD-Louise E. (Avelar) Knowles, 94, of New Bedford passed away Monday, August 12, 2024 at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford.  She was the wife of the late Albert Phillips and the late Gilbert Dolman.

Born in New Bedford, daughter of the late John and Alice E. (Hinckley) Avelar, she lived most of her life in the New Bedford area and was a 1948 graduate of New Bedford High School and a longtime member of St. Paul's Methodist Church.  "Ma Dolman", as she was known by many, was a Register Nurse and graduated from the Newton Welsley School of Nursing 1951.  She worked at various hospitals in the Boston and New Bedford area.

She was a volunteer for the Hospice of Community Nurse's of Fairhaven and a member of various committees and clubs at church.

She is survived by her children, Robert L.Phillips, Alice V. Costa, Richard G. Phillips, John G. Dolman, Scott K. Dolman, Susan L. Morris and Elizabeth Cardona and the brothers, LaBelle, Dick and Bobby;  eight surviving grandchildren and the late Cori Jae Morris and Michael Jae-Dolman Cardona;  seven great grandchildren;  also survived by her beloved niece Margie Kirk, nephew John Kirk and the late Debbie Kirk-Rihn;  and Louise was the sister of the late Ruth L. Kirk.

In accordance with her wishes she will be cremated and memorial visitation will be held Thursday, August 22, 2024 from 4-6pm in the Donaghy New Day Cremation and Funeral Care, 465 County Street, New Bedford with a service at 6PM.  Burial in Acushnet Cemetery will be private.  For facility directions or memorial register please visit, www.newdayfunerals.com.