It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our mother, Firmina Gomes-Faial. She passed on a beautiful sunny day on Monday, January 22, 2024 at HopeHeath Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence. She was the youngest daughter born to Manuel “Firmina” Gomes and Candida Da Silva on the island of Brava, in the Cape Verdean Islands. She had 5 predeceased older siblings, Jose Da Silva Gomes, Maria Da Silva Gomes, Laura Da Silva Gomes, Benvinda Da Silva Gomes, Antonio Da Silva Gomes, and 3 half siblings, Isabel Gomes, Maria "Nana" Gomes, and Zebalina Gomes.
She leaves behind her beloved children, Manuel "Firmina" Gomes, Candida "Firmina" Gomes-Fernandes, Henry Fortes, Clarie Garcia, and Mery Faial-Zaynoune. She predeceased two additional children, Pedro "Firmina" Gomes and Alicia "Firmina" Gomes. She was blessed with 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, 2 daughters-in-law, 2 sons-in-law, and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Firmina lived at 58 Arthur Ave, North Providence with her son Henry Fortes and daughter-in-law Raphaela. She worked for many years in the textile factories in Pawtucket until her retirement from International Packaging Factory. She enjoyed spending time with her vast Cape Verdean family members and celebrating joyful milestones such as weddings, birthdays, baptisms, and seasonal holidays. One of her favorite hobbies was shopping with her daughters and granddaughter for hats and matching color coordinated outfits to attend celebrations.
Firmina was well loved by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her and spending time in her presence. She was known for her generosity, kindness, and compassion towards others. She brought joy and laughter into our family and was courageous and strong through all her life's challenges. She was a bright light that encapsulated and blessed all those who graced her path. She will be greatly missed by many but never forgotten.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the aids and care providers from Nursing Placement, especially Ariana, Rosa, and Paula.
Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, January 26, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 8:30 AM to 10 AM at Keefe Funeral Home, Five (5) Higginson Ave. Lincoln, RI. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 27th at Immaculate Heart of Mary, located on 291 High St, Pawtucket, RI 02860 at 10:30 AM, followed by her burial at Swan Point Cemetery in Providence.