Clarice Goncalves

East Providence - Clarice Goncalves, a cherished matriarch, and admired seamstress, passed away peacefully, suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday, April 8, 2024, at the William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut. Born on September 6, 1932, in the Cape Verde Islands, Clarice was the beloved daughter of the late Gregorio and Isabella (Lopes Fontes) Goncalves. She was 91 years old.

Clarice's life was marked by her loving and selfless nature, which was evident to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through the many chapters of her life. She was the former wife of the late Orlando Nogueira and together they shared a life full of love and family.

A dedicated mother, Clarice leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion through her children: Hariano Nogueira and his wife Yonnick of Paris, France; Maldonaldo Nogueira of Cape Verde; Riolanda Grisard and her husband Pierre of Toulouse, France; Nora Fontes and her husband Antonio of Plainfield, Connecticut; Orlanda Dumon and her husband John Philip of East Providence; Elizabeth Van Prooyen and her husband Allan of East Providence; and Brenda Nogueira of Plainfield, Connecticut.

Her warmth and nurturing spirit extended to her ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of kindness and generosity. Clarice's family circle was wide, with many nieces, nephews, and their spouses, who will remember her fondly for her wisdom and loving guidance. She was predeceased by her siblings: Sabino Goncalves, Franklin Goncalves, Mariana Fonseca, Catarina Goncalves, Belmira Gomes, Emilia Fontes, Matilda Monteiro, and Maria Lima.

Clarice's professional life as a seamstress was marked by exceptional skill and creativity. She worked with excellence for numerous companies before dedicating her talents to her family, crafting beautiful garments and items without the need for patterns, a testament to her remarkable abilities. Her work was not only a means of livelihood but also a form of artistic expression that brought joy to those who wore and cherished her creations.

Beyond her work, Clarice had a passion for life and a variety of interests that enriched her days. She found solace and joy in her garden, where she spent countless hours tending to her plants and flowers. Her love for travel took her back to her roots in the Cape Verde Islands, where she reconnected with her heritage and the beauty of her birthplace. Clarice's hands were rarely still, as she was an avid practitioner of sewing, knitting, crochet, and embroidery, skills that she passed on to future generations.

Those who knew Clarice would describe her as a loving and faith-filled woman who always put others before herself. Her selflessness was the fabric that wove her family tightly together and the legacy that will continue to inspire those she has left behind.

Clarice Goncalves lived a full and vibrant life, touching the hearts of many with her kindness and grace. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a beacon of love and strength within her family and community. Her spirit will continue to guide and comfort those who were fortunate enough to have been a part of her life.

Her funeral will be held on Friday April 12,2024 at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, RI, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in Our Lady of Loreto Church ,346 Waterman Avenue, East Providence.  Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Thursday April 11, 2024, from 4:00pm-7:00pm in the funeral home. 

Anyone wishing to send flowers, the family requests all WHITE FLOWERS, please, they are also using P and J Florist, 340 Warren Avenue, East Providence.

www.rebellofuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clarice Goncalves, please visit our floral store.