East Providence - Maria Genoveva (Barbosa) Cabral, 81, known affectionately as Genoveva to all who loved her, departed this world on Friday, January 3, 2025, at her home in East Providence, Rhode Island. Born on November 7, 1943, in the quaint village of Pedreira Do Nordeste, Sao Miguel, Açores, Genoveva's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and gentle kindness that touched the hearts of everyone she knew.
Genoveva was the beloved wife of Alvaro Cabral, with whom she shared over 54 years of marriage, a journey filled with mutual support and deep affection. She was the cherished daughter of the late John and Herminia (Rebelo) Barbosa, whose memory she held dear throughout her life. As a devoted mother, Genoveva's nurturing spirit was a guiding light to her children, John Cabral and his wife Cindy of Rehoboth, MA; Rita Lemire and her late husband Keith of Glocester; Amelia Bissinger and her husband Karl of North Providence; and Cristina Gravel and her husband Michael, Jr. of Foster.
Her siblings, John, Manuel and his wife Zelia, and Ricardo Barbosa, all of East Providence; Rita De Medeiros and her husband Ricardo of Sao Miguel, Açores, and Maria Barbosa and her husband Dimas, of Sao Miguel, Açores, shared a bond with Genoveva that was unbreakable, filled with shared memories and laughter. As a grandmother, Genoveva's love knew no bounds. Her grandchildren, Kelly Lemire, Brad Gravel and Matthew Gravel, Caitlyn, Rachel, and James Cabral, will forever cherish the countless moments of joy and wisdom she imparted upon them. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Genoveva's life was one of service and dedication, demonstrated through her work as a Lab Technician at the Davol Manufacturing Company for over a decade. Her commitment to her profession was matched only by her commitment to her community, as she was a longstanding parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Having resided in East Providence for over 38 years, Genoveva's presence became an integral part of the fabric of the community.
Her interests were a reflection of her love for life and the simple pleasures it offers. Genoveva found solace in the beauty of her garden, the creativity of crocheting, and most importantly, the warmth of spending time with her family and grandchildren. These moments were the cornerstones of her happiness and contentment.
Genoveva's legacy is one of love, kindness, and gentleness—qualities that those who knew her would unanimously attest to. Her ability to listen with compassion, offer support without hesitation, and embrace others with a tender heart made her a beacon of light in the lives of many.
In life, Genoveva was a symbol of unwavering love and quiet strength. Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Though she has left this earthly realm, the echoes of her laughter, the warmth of her embrace, and the love she so freely gave will endure forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
Genoveva's journey through life was a testament to the beauty of a heart full of love, and her memory will be treasured as a gift that enriched the lives of all who were part of her story. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we take solace in knowing that her legacy will live on, a gentle reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 10:00am in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 21 Traverse Street, Providence. Burial will follow in the Gate of Heaven Cemetery,550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.
Visiting hours are Tuesday January 7, 2025, from 4:00pm – 7:00pm in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN, 38105.
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