Maria Lopes Barbosa

Mrs. Maria Lopes Barbosa, lovingly known to all as Eda, entered eternal rest at the age of 89 on December 22, 2025, returning Home to our Heavenly Father.

Eda lived a full and richly meaningful life. It was a simple life, yet one deeply filled with love, happiness, and laughter. She was deeply loved by her parents, Francisco “Chiquinho de Gorda” Docanto and Benvida Fernandes, who affectionately referred to her as their “little baby,” even though she was the eldest of their children. Her father, Chiquinho, lovingly accompanied Eda as far as he could to São Vicente when she traveled to America, ensuring she would never feel alone.

Eda shared wonderful, enduring relationships with all of her siblings: Eda shared wonderful, enduring relationships with all her siblings: Ronald DoCanto, Antonia "Mery" Depina, Quirino DoCanto, Antonia "Tchica" Cardosa, Antonio "Tony" Vieira, Maria Pires, Nelson DoCanto, Manuel DoCanto, Theresa "Libana" Vicente, Maria Augusta Pereira, Maria Louisa "Tchitcha" Tavares, Francisco "Frank" Do Canto, Maria "Lala" DePina, Tchinga (Unk) and Quirino Gomes.

Eda was like a mother to her many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and countless godchildren—far too many to name. Many fondly recall Eda chaperoning them to their very first dances. She loved to dance herself and had many opportunities to do so, especially since her brothers were members of the band “Machona.”

She always made herself available to younger family members—whether to help work through a problem or to listen as they spoke about the latest love in their lives. Eda was known for her wise advice, steady encouragement, and her desire to see those she loved live their best lives and find true happiness.

Though she stood just 4 feet 11 inches tall, Eda had a big personality. She was almost always smiling or laughing and had a gift for storytelling that could leave you rolling on the floor with laughter until your stomach hurt. Eda never hesitated to speak her mind—if you offended her, you would surely feel her wrath. But if you touched her heart, you gained a friend for life.

Eda traveled throughout the United States, and wherever she went, she left behind lifelong friendships.

Anyone who knew Eda will remember her as a happy, stylish woman. She loved to look good—always well-dressed, with her hair done, high heels on, and her jewelry perfectly in place. Even as she grew older, she never wanted to be seen as anything less than put together.

If you ever asked Eda whether she lived a good life, she would answer without hesitation, “Absolutely—a great life.” And now, as her Heavenly Father has called her Home, we believe she is content—reunited with her beloved husband, Antonio, once again catching up with him and joyfully visiting with all of her dearly departed loved ones.

Though we are left with heavy hearts, we are profoundly blessed to have shared our lives with such an extraordinary woman. Eda will forever remain in our hearts.

May she rest in eternal peace.