It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Rita Barbara Cabral, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and so much more.
Rita died peacefully on Tuesday evening just before the New Year, surrounded by loved ones.
A lifelong resident of Fall River, she was the daughter of the late William Cabral and Januaria Cabral. She is survived by her spouse, Marie J. Oliver, her daughter, Rebekah Ann Pontes, (fiancé, Nathan Green) brother, William Cabral Jr. (wife Mary), sister Fernanda Nobrega, (husband, Seraphim), cherished grandson, Jake Robert Green, several nieces, and nephews, and countless friends.
Rita had a beautiful mind. She was smart, quick witted, and strong willed, and driven. She was a proud woman, devoted to those she loved in every way.
Before retiring, Rita worked for Newport Hotel Group in Middletown, RI in the field of accounting. She was extremely gifted and respected in her field and adored by her coworkers.
In her spare time, Rita loved basking in the sun in her favorite place on her backyard deck, where she could appreciate her beautiful garden with Marie, feed the birds, do her crossword puzzles, and take cat naps.
She could often be found doting on her grandson Jake. As his “Doe”, she would make him laugh endlessly by singing, trying out his dance moves, telling him secret stories about his mother, or putting a voice to his stuffed turtle “Tuffy “. She never missed a dance recital and was his number one fan. He truly was the love of her life.
In the many years she shared with Marie, they created a nurturing life for her daughter Rebekah, and together allowed her to grow up surrounded by love, and support, undoubtedly shaping her into the woman that she is today.
Rita was a member of Saint Stanislaus Parish, where she always sat in the front row in full view of her grandson serving mass as an accolade. She is at peace now with her lord and savior, and reunited with her parents, and all those who have gone before her.
Although, we are overcome with grief, we take comfort in our memories, and the love and support from our friends and family.
Remember her big beautiful brown eyes, warm welcoming smile, courageous heart, and warm soul, for she will be eternally missed.
I love you Mama.
Family and Friends are invited to attend Rita's Funeral Mass in St. Stanislaus Church, 36 Rockland St., Fall River on Saturday, January 4th at 10:00 A.M. Cremation to follow.