Lenora M. (Barbosa) Mantia

Lenora Maria Mantia, 85, of East Providence, formerly of Brooklyn, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Rhode Island Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Sao Miguel, Azores on May 20, 1938, the beloved daughter of the late Manuel Furtado Barbosa and Marie Taveira.

Lenora grew up in New York City, in the borough of Manhattan, where she attended school. She initially pursued a career as a hairdresser and makeup artist, counting former first lady Lady Bird Johnson among her clients. Later, she transitioned to become a contracting officer for the United States federal government, where she played a crucial role in issuing contracts for the construction or renovation of courthouses in Manhattan.

A woman of deep faith, Lenora was a devout Catholic and long-standing parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in East Providence. She actively participated in the parish's bible study groups and fundraising efforts. Additionally, she was a dedicated member of the East Providence Senior Center for many years. Lenora had a passion for solving crossword puzzles and exploring the world through travel, with visits to her beloved Azores Islands and the Holy Land being among her fondest memories. Known for her motivational spirit, she often encouraged others to "shake a leg".

Above all, Lenora cherished her family dearly, finding her greatest joy in their company. She is survived by her son, Joseph Lima, and his wife Kathy of Aurora, CO, her daughter Lenora Tavares and her husband Fernando of Virginia, and her five cherished grandchildren: Anthony Lima, Joseph Lima Jr., Susana Tavares, Michelle Tavares, and Kelly Tavares. She is also survived by her brother, James Barbosa, and his wife Ana of East Providence.

Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Lenora's funeral services on Monday, May 13, 2024. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:45 AM at the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 118 Taunton Avenue, East Providence. Interment will take place at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, Riverside.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lenora's memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.stjude.org.

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