Anne Sousa (Kelly): Cherished Nurse, Wife, Mother, Sister, and Friend age 56, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, surrounded by her loving family after a brave and enduring six-year battle with brain cancer.
Born on June 24, 1968, Anne was the third of six children, recognized for her deep compassion, dedication to others, and remarkable strength. Throughout her life, she exemplified what it means to care deeply for those around her, a quality she carried into her professional and personal life.
As a Registered Nurse, Anne’s career was marked by her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. Whether in the hospital, nursing homes, private home care, or through her entrepreneurial venture, Pretty Paws Bakery on Main Street in Fairhaven, she touched countless lives with her gentle and compassionate spirit.
Anne held a special place in her heart for the elderly, disabled, and those with Down syndrome, making everyone she encountered feel seen and valued. Her influence on the community was profound, and she was a true beacon of kindness.
Anne was a devoted wife to her husband, John, whom she married in 1985. Throughout Anne’s battle with cancer, John was her steadfast caregiver, providing her with love, support, and comfort during the most difficult times of her life.
In addition to her professional life and marriage, Anne was a loving mother, sister, daughter, and friend. Her children and grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Anne shared a special bond with her siblings, always there to uplift and support them through life’s many milestones and challenges.
Anne was also known for her impeccable sense of style, always elegant and fashionable, with a particular fondness for designer clothes and shoes. Her Louis Vuitton purse was a constant companion, symbolizing her eye for beauty and quality.
Despite the significant challenges life brought her, including the heartbreaking loss of her son Blake and her mother, Carol, Anne faced each one with grace and resilience. Her beloved home in Dartmouth, affectionately named Tara after her favorite movie, Gone with the Wind, was a place of warmth and love, reflecting the spirit of its owner.
Anne’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and service. She will be fondly remembered as a loving wife, a devoted mother, a caring nurse, and a loyal friend. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Anne is survived by her husband of 39 years, John; her son, Brennon; her cherished grandchildren, Brayden and Bella; her siblings, Fred Kelly, Lori Franco, Mary Kelly, Gary Pepin and Kim Gregg-Carney, and her extended family and friends who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her son, Blake, and her mother, Carol Landry.
A beautiful outdoor memorial service will be held on Tuesday September 3 from 11 a.m to 12 p.m. in the Rose Garden at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House located at 396 County Street in New Bedford, please use the back entrance only.
As a tribute to Anne, the family is requesting her favorite colors, of Black and Pink be worn, if possible.
Music will be provided by Brianne Vieira, who will be playing popular 80’s music on violin including the song “Faithfully” by Journey which was one of her favorite songs.
The burial will take place after the service at Rural Cemetery in New Bedford, where there will be a butterfly release, and long-stem roses will be given to place on top of the casket.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of the funeral service.
Please leave a condolence message or your favorite memory of Anne "Celebrating a Life Well Lived" on the Southcoast & Boyko Funeral Home Website
Services are humbly entrusted into the care of Southcoast & Boyko Funeral Homes