Maria J (Cunha) Braga

Maria J. (Cunha) Braga, a cherished matriarch and beacon of warmth within her community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Grace Barker Nursing Home in Warren, RI, just shy of her 82nd birthday. Born on May 5, 1943, in the picturesque village of Almagreira, Santa Maria, Azores, Maria's journey led her to East Providence, where she spent 66 fulfilling years. 

Maria was the beloved wife of the late Jose N. Braga, with whom she shared over 45 years of devoted marriage until his passing in 2011. She was the cherished daughter of the late Manuel B. and Maria (DeMelo) Cunha. A loving and dedicated mother, she is survived by her children, Lori Lopes and her husband Jim of Swansea, Suzanne DePalo and her husband Chris of Rehoboth and David Braga of Seekonk. Maria was the proud sister of Joseph Cunha and his wife Grace of Seekonk, and she was predeceased by her sister, the late Isaltina Medina and her husband John of East Providence and her sister-in-law, the late Francelina Braga. 

Her legacy of love extends to her adored grandchildren Jimmy and his wife Amanda, Ashley and her husband Zach, Brianna, Emma, Marina, Dylan, and Keira, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren Kaylee and Kenzie. Maria's spirit will live on through the many nieces and nephews who experienced her kindness and selfless nature. 

Maria's professional life was marked by her long tenure at Barlow Designs, where her diligent work and friendly demeanor were appreciated by all. Her commitment to faith was evident through her active membership at St. Francis Xavier Church. 

Beyond her work and spiritual life, Maria was deeply involved in her community, volunteering at the Centro Cultural de Santa Maria Club of East Providence. She had a passion for traveling, especially to the family home in Sao Lourenco, Azores, which held a special place in her heart. Maria's hobbies included baking, crocheting, and cooking—skills that she generously shared with loved ones and friends alike. 

Vacations with her family were treasured moments, as were the times she spent with her grandchildren and cousins. Maria's home was a testament to her loving and open-hearted nature; her door was always open, welcoming everyone with open arms, no matter the hour. 

Those who had the privilege of knowing Maria will remember her for her loving, kind and selfless personality. She created an environment where every individual felt valued and loved. Her ability to bring people together and make them feel at home was unparalleled. 

Maria's impact on the lives she touched was profound, and her memory will be held dear by those who were fortunate enough to experience her love and friendship. As we bid farewell to Maria, we celebrate a life that was filled with joy, generosity and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. Her radiant spirit and the lessons of love and kindness she imparted will continue to inspire and guide us. 

Maria's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, dedication and service. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a guiding light in the lives of many. Her legacy of love and community lives on, a testament to a life well-lived and a woman well-loved. 

Her funeral will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Francis Xavier Church, 81 North Carpenter Street, 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 on Friday from 4:00pm-7:00pm in the funeral home.   Donations in her memory may be made to The Alzheimer's Association of Rhode Island, 245 Waterman St #306, Providence, RI 02906, would be appreciated. 

www.rebellofuneralhomes.com. 

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