Maria Adelaide Azevedo, 92, of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, a beacon of strength, love, and resilience, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on June 11, 2024, in Providence, Rhode Island.


Maria was born in Cabo Verde to the late Jose Mendes Timas of Fogo, Cabo Verde and Regina Pereira Mendes of Brava, Cabo Verde on December 4, 1931. Maria ventured to the United States in 1977 alongside her beloved husband and children, driven by the promise of the American dream.


Maria was the epitome of devotion as a wife to the late Marcelino M. Azevedo and as a mother to her ten cherished children. As a dedicated homemaker, she tirelessly nurtured her family, instilling in them the values of love, integrity, and perseverance. Education was paramount in Maria's household, ensuring each of her children received the gift of knowledge.
Affectionately known as "Mama" by her children and grandchildren, Maria's talents knew no bounds. From her enchanting voice in song to her culinary mastery in the kitchen, she brought joy and warmth to all who knew her. Her crochet creations were a testament to her artistry, each piece intricately crafted with love and care.


Maria's generosity knew no bounds, ensuring no one left her presence without a full heart and a satisfied appetite. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, reflected in her devout Catholicism and unwavering dedication to prayer.


Despite facing life's trials, Maria's indomitable spirit shone brightly, her laughter echoing through the halls of her home. She imparted wisdom and strength to her descendants, teaching them that resilience and determination pave the path to success.

Maria is survived by her children: Maria Dulcita Olivera, Marie Madleine Silva, Regina Azevedo, Eurely Lilly Diop, Alda A. Paulino, Joao Victor Azevedo, Adeline Azevedo, Veronique A. Monteiro, and Zenaide A. Lopes. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Tiffanie Adelaide Desrosiers (Barbosa), Tony Lopes, Claudine D. Silva, Vanessa Paulino, Victor Depina Laughlin, Jeremy Daluz, Jeffrey Daluz, Jordan Daluz, Iesha Benway, Nadine Silva, Sonia Silva, Kabrina Benway, Alexandra M. Monteiro, Kiana Lopes, Janna Miranda, Neyomi Lopes, Anabelle Paulino, Jaleen Azevedo, Jacob Rennoe, and Momar Diop. She was also a great-grandmother to 22 beautiful great-grandchildren. Maria is survived by her five siblings: Eduardo DaGraca Mendes of Praia, Cabo Verde; Carlos Pereira Mendes and Maria Matilda Pereira Mendes of Rhode Island; Joao Baptista Pereira Mendes of Angola; and Maria Madalena Pereira Mendes deMacedo of Florida. She was also an aunt to many nieces and nephews who loved her so dearly. She is preceded in death by her husband Marcelino M. Azevedo; her daughter Ana Marie Azevedo; her grandchildren Randy Lopes, Corey Azevedo Miranda, Jocelyn Azevedo Docouto, and Brandon Paulino; and her siblings, Alice Mendes DaGraca Cardoso; Jose Pereira Mendes; Manuel Pereira Mendes; Maria dos Reis Pereira Mendes Pires; Victor Pereira Mendes; and Maria Jose Pereira Mendes DaRosa.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend visiting hours on Saturday, June 15th from 8 am – 9:15 am at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Ave, Lincoln, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. John the Baptist Church, 69 Quincy Ave, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in North Burial Ground, Providence.