Maria Angelina (Andrade) Mendonca

 Rumford - Maria Angelina (Andrade) Mendonca, known affectionately as Maria to her friends and family, passed away at her home in Rumford, with her two daughters by her side, on Saturday August 17, 2024. Born on May 20, 1943, in São Miguel, Azores, Maria was a beacon of love and faith throughout her 81 years of life.

Maria was the beloved wife of the late John A. Mendonca, sharing a life filled with love and devotion until his passing. She was the cherished daughter of the late Clarence and Maria S. (Sousa Cadette) Andrade, who instilled in her the values of family and community that she carried throughout her life. Her legacy continues through her loving daughters, Suzette Page and her husband Andrew of Barrington, and Lynne DiCecco and her husband Chris of Rumford. Maria was a proud and doting grandmother to Tyler and Brandon DiCecco, who brought immense joy and pride to her life.

Maria's brother, Manuel Andrade of Rumford, will remember her as a sister who was always there with a kind word and a helping hand. She was a pillar of strength and support to her family, and her passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

She came to the United States in1947, settling in the Fox Point Section of Providence for many years, before moving to Rumford in 1979.

For over 28 years, Maria dedicated herself to her work as a coiler at Davol Rubber Company, where she was a respected and valued colleague. Her commitment to her work was matched by her involvement with the Local 911 United Rubber Workers Union, where she was an active member, advocating for the rights and welfare of her fellow workers.

A devout parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Maria's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She lived her beliefs through her actions, always extending kindness and compassion to those around her. Maria was also an engaged member of the East Providence Senior Center, where she enjoyed the camaraderie and activities that enriched her later years.

Traveling was one of Maria's passions, exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. She treasured the opportunity to see the world and create memories that she would share with her friends over lunch, another of her favorite pastimes. However, nothing compared to the time she spent with her family. Maria's most cherished activity was being surrounded by her loved ones, celebrating life's milestones and the everyday moments that weave the tapestry of a family's shared history.

Those who knew Maria will remember her as a loving and kind soul, a woman whose faith guided her every step. She was the embodiment of love in action, always putting others before herself and spreading warmth and care wherever she went.

As we bid farewell to Maria Angelina Mendonca, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, kindness, and faith. Her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends, inspiring all who were blessed to know her. Maria's memory will be forever treasured, and her influence will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Her journey on this earth may have come to a close, but the legacy of Maria Angelina Mendonca will endure, a testament to a life filled with purpose, generosity, and an unshakeable belief in the goodness of others. May she rest in peace, enveloped in the love she so freely gave during her time among us.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visiting hours on Wednesday, August 21,2024 from 9:00-10:00am IN, Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 21 Traverse Street, Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in the church.

Burial will follow in Mt. St. Mary Cemetery, 661 Prospect Street, Pawtucket.

Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 3 Speen Street Ste 250, Framingham MA. 01701

Arrangements by the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, East Providence.

www.rebellofuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maria Angelina (Andrade) Mendonca, please visit our floral store.