Providence - Maria Angelina Lima (Falcao) DeSousa,known affectionately to all as Maria, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Orchard View Nursing Home in East Providence. Born on June 25, 1937, in Vila Do Porto, Azores, Maria was a beacon of love and faith throughout her 88 years. She was the cherished wife of the late Antonio DeSousa and the beloved daughter of the late Antonio and Angelina Do Soledade (Lima) Falcao.
Maria's life was marked by her enduring strength and kindness. After moving to Providence in 1964, she quickly became an integral part of the community. She devoted many years of service to Providence College, where she worked diligently in the cleaning department. Her hard work and dedication were a testament to her character, and her warm, friendly nature made her a favorite among both colleagues and students.
A devout parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Maria's faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her love for her faith was only matched by her love for her family. She was a loving mother to Cesar M. Sousa and his wife Jennifer of New Orleans, LA; Eulalia C. Maxmean and her husband Peter of Riverside; and Susane L. Gouveia and her late husband George of Providence. Her legacy of love extends to her siblings, Fatima Sousa of Hartford, CT; Adelina Loura of East Providence; and she was predeceased by her siblings Maria Teresa Sousa, and Antonio Figueiredo. Maria's joy was multiplied by her grandchildren, Brandon, Antonio, Claudio, Mason, and Crystal, to whom she was an adoring grandmother.
Maria's family was the center of her world, and she was the heart of theirs. Her home was a place of warmth, where the smell of her cooking would greet you at the door, and her laughter would fill the rooms. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel loved and welcomed, and her presence was a comforting embrace to those who knew her.
Maria will be forever remembered as a loving, kind, and faith-filled woman. She was a source of wisdom and comfort, always willing to listen and offer words of encouragement. Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and faith, which will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.
As we say farewell to Maria Angelina Lima (Falcao) DeSousa, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love and grace. She was a treasure to her family, a friend to many, and a faithful servant to her community and church. Maria's memory will be cherished, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she so freely gave during her time with us.
Her funeral will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME. 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 21 Traverse St., Providence.
Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are SATURDAY MORNING from 8:30-9:30am, in the funeral home.
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