Manuel Francisco Lopes "Ti Lela", 100, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loving family on Wednesday, July 13, 2022. Manuel is survived by his beloved wife Vitoria (Mota) Lopes of 61 years.

Born on February 8, 1922, in Monte Joana-Ribeira Grande, Santo Antao, Cabo Verde, to the late Francisco Antonio Lopes and Julia Maria (Delgado) Lopes.

He was the proud father of Paula Lopes, Joana Lopes her husband Fernando Santos of Luxemburg, Benvindo Lopes Santos his wife Aida Santos, Maria Espirito Santo Lopes, her husband Paulo Rocha and Maria Monteiro. He is survived by sisters, Filomena Julia (Lopes) Delgado and Lourenca Julia (Lopes) Gomes. Manuel was a man who cherished his 14 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

He is predeceased by brothers Martinho Francisco Lopes, Joao Francisco Lopes, Antonio Francisco Lopes, and Joao DaCruz Lopes, and sisters Rosinha Lopes, Antonia Julia Lopes, Maria Julia (Lopes) Assuncao and Constancia Julia Lopes. He also leaves behind dozens of loving nieces and nephews, many godchildren, and scores of friends that were more like family to him.

Manuel was a God-fearing man who gave daily praise to God in whatever he did. Gratitude lived in his heart and constantly on his lips.

Manuel had worked on cargo ships and sailed almost all the oceans of the world in his younger years. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1979 with his wife and two youngest daughters, and he worked at the Biltmore Hotel in Providence for many years before his retirement. He was a hardworking man who always wanted better and more for all those around him. He was the epitome of a gentleman who welcomed all with a sweet smile and a warm embrace. He could never resist a good hand of Bisca (cards) while surrounded by good conversation. He had the best sense of humor and loved kidding around with everyone, because wherever he was, laughter and joy were always within earshot.
Manuel’s physical presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but the love he gave, the memories he leaves, the love we all have for him, live on within all of us- always and in all ways. We are all better and blessed for having had him in our lives.

“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:9-10 NIV

Relatives and Friends are invited to attend Calling Hours Friday, July 15th from 4pm-7pm.
His funeral will be held Saturday starting at 9am in the Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave. Lincoln, RI 02865 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 291 High St, Pawtucket, RI 02860 at 11am. Burial will follow at Swan Point Cemetery, 585 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI 02906.