Maria Rosario (Pimentel) Sousa

Maria Rosario (Pimentel) Sousa, affectionately known as Maria to her loved ones, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the age of 82, at the Spring Hill Assisted Living in Orlando, Florida . Born on March 31, 1942, in Sao Miguel Azores, Maria was a beacon of love and strength, cherished by all who knew her.

Maria was the beloved wife of the late Joao Paiva Sousa and the devoted daughter of the late Jose and Maria Pereira (Ponte) Pimentel. She was a nurturing mother to her children, Carl Sousa and his wife Margaret of Orlando, Florida; Joe Sousa and his wife Kathy of Prescott, Arizona; Natalie Skinner and her husband Tom of Dania, Florida; and Grace Dulude and her fiancé Peter Eacuello of Cranston. Maria's legacy continues through her siblings, Joao Pimentel, Maria Anjos of East Providence, and Sr. Filomena Pimentel of Lisbon, Portugal. She was predeceased by her brother, the late Jose Pimentel. Her memory will also live on in the hearts of her adoring grandchildren—Wesley, Christian, Cameron, Katarina, and Alec—as well as her numerous nieces and nephews.

In 1970, Maria embarked on a courageous journey from Portugal to the United States, making her home in Pawtucket. She quickly became a valued member of the community and dedicated over 33 years of her life to working as a jewelry assembler at the Providence Metalizing Company. Her colleagues remember her as a passionate and loving individual who brought warmth and enthusiasm to her work every day.

Maria's interests were a reflection of her loving nature and passionate spirit. She was an exceptional cook, often found creating traditional Portuguese dishes that brought her family and friends together. Her garden was a testament to her dedication and care, blooming with vibrant colors and fragrances that mirrored her own zest for life. Maria's faith was an integral part of her being, and she was deeply involved in her religious community, enriching the lives of those around her with her devout spirit.

Her friends and neighbors will fondly remember Maria for her generous hospitality and the joy she took in connecting with others, particularly within the Portuguese community. She was a true friend, always ready to lend a hand or share a moment of companionship.

Maria will be remembered as a loving and passionate soul who embraced life's challenges with grace and determination. Her unwavering love for her family, her pride in her heritage, and her commitment to her faith and community have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Maria's spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, and her memory will be cherished forever.

As we bid farewell to Maria Rosario (Pimentel) Sousa, let us hold fast to the beautiful memories she created ,the wisdom she imparted, and the love she so freely gave. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, the strength of family, and the beauty of tradition. She will be deeply missed, but her light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched.

Her funeral will be held on Friday, January 17,2025 at 8:00am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Anthony Church, 32 Lawn Avenue, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting Hours are Friday MORNING from 8:00am – 9:00am in the funeral home.   www.rebellofuneralhomes.com

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