Virgilio Duarte

Virgilio Duarte, a cherished husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in East Providence on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on August 2, 1933, in Brava, Cabo Verde, Virgilio was the beloved son of the late Benjamin and Isabel (Gomes) Duarte, and he carried the warmth of his homeland in his heart throughout his life.

Virgilio was the loving husband of Carmen (Barbosa) Duarte, with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring marriage. Together, they built a life founded on mutual respect, joy, and an abundance of love. He was a devoted father to Benjamin Duarte of Pawtucket, Paul Duarte of Rumford, and Carol Gatti and her husband Anthony of Scarborough, Maine. Virgilio's guidance and gentle nature were the cornerstones of their upbringing.

In addition to his immediate family, Virgilio was the caring brother of Ana Ramos of Plantation, Florida, and a fond uncle to Sandra and Jacqueline. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Anthony, Diego, Paul Jr., and Madisen, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons imparted by their grandfather.

Virgilio's professional life was marked by his dedication as a cook for the former Asquinos Restaurant, where he worked for over 25 years. His culinary talents were not just his profession but also a means of expressing his love for family and friends, as he often delighted them with dishes infused with the flavors of his homeland.

Beyond his work, Virgilio had a passion for gardening, where his tender care for plants reflected the care he showed to those around him. An avid reader, he found joy in the pages of books, which were gateways to other worlds and sources of endless knowledge. Traveling was another of Virgilio's interests, as he loved exploring new places and cultures, often accompanied by the sounds of Cape Verdean music, which he listened to with an ever-present smile.

Described by those who knew him as loving, friendly, and gentle, Virgilio's presence was a soothing one, bringing comfort and happiness to any room he entered. His warmth was like the sun of his birthplace, and his gentle demeanor was a breeze that could calm any storm. Virgilio's friendly nature made him a cherished companion, and his love for others was evident in every action and every word.

Virgilio's passing leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him, but the memories of his loving spirit will live on. As we say goodbye to Virgilio Duarte, we do so with gratitude for the time we had with him and the lessons he taught us about living life with grace and compassion.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Virgilio will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, surrounded by his family and loved ones. His life and memory will be honored in the hearts of those who loved him, and his gentle soul will forever be a guiding light to his family and the many lives he touched.

His funeral service will be held on Monday, March 3, 2025, at 11:00am in the Bethany Church of the Nazarene, burial will follow in the Rumford Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 4:00pm – 7:00pm in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence.

Kindly omit flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Hope Hospice, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI, 02904.  www.rebellofuneralhomes.com

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