Vidalia M (Marques) Gomes

 Rumford - Vidalia M. Gomes,81, lovingly known as Vidalia to all who knew her, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on Wednesday , July 24, 2024, at her home in Rumford, Rhode Island. Born on September 22, 1942, in Sao Miguel, Azores, she was a beacon of warmth and kindness throughout her life.

Vidalia was the cherished wife of the late Gabriel DaCosta Gomes, and together they shared a life full of love and dedication. She was the beloved daughter of the late Angelo and and Maria Lidia (DaCunha)Marques. Her role as a mother was one she held close to her heart, nurturing and guiding her children Antonio Gomes of Westport, MA, Jorge Gomes of Warwick, Gabriel Gomes of Rumford, David Gomes of Wrentham, MA, Michael Gomes of Dayville, CT, and Patricia Lambert of Rumford. Vidalia was a caring sister to Zelia Cunha and Adelina Pacheco, both of East Providence, and she was preceded in death by her brothers Manuel Marques and Gilbert DaCunha. Her legacy extends through her 15 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews who will carry forward the light of her love.

Since the 1970s, after moving from Portugal, Vidalia became a cornerstone of the East Providence community. Her life was a testament to the values of faith, family, and service. She was a devoted parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church, where she found great solace and joy in her faith. Vidalia's passions extended to her garden, where she cultivated not only flowers but also a sense of beauty and tranquility that reflected her inner spirit.

Those who knew Vidalia will remember her as a loving and kind soul, and funny always ready to lend a hand or share a word of encouragement. Her faith-filled nature was evident to all, as she lived a life guided by compassion and grace. Vidalia's presence was a comfort to many, and her memory will be a treasure to all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Vidalia's life journey from the Azores to Rhode Island was marked by her resilience and her ability to create a warm and inviting home for her family and friends. Her dedication to her work and community involvement was a clear reflection of her strong character and her commitment to the values she held dear.

As we bid farewell to Vidalia M. Gomes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart that generously loved. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her gentle spirit. Vidalia's legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the perennial blooms in her garden return each year to remind us of nature's enduring beauty.

Vidalia's life was a journey of love, faith, and beauty, and although she has departed from this earthly realm, her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she leaves behind. We honor her memory by embracing the lessons she taught through her example: to live with kindness, to nurture with love, and to walk in faith. Rest in peace, dear Vidalia, until we meet again.

Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at   10:00 am, 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 will be on Monday, July 29,2024 from 4:00pm-7:00pm at the funeral home. 

Donations in her memory may be made to the Providence Rescue Mission, 627 Cranston St, Providence, RI 02907 or to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tn 38105. www.rebellofuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vidalia M (Marques) Gomes, please visit our floral store.