Angelica Barros, 79, of Thompson, Connecticut, previously of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2024, at Backus Hospital. Born on October 28, 1944, in Brava, Cabo Verde, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Joao Pereira and Maria Turibio Pires. She was formerly married to Alberto DeBarros of Pawtucket, RI and they share two daughters.

Angelica was known for her warmth, friendliness, and radiant smile. She is cherished by her family and friends. She will be remembered for her gatherings which featured delicious meals. No one will forget her homemade bread. Her intelligence and kindness toward everyone she encountered made her a beloved figure in any setting -- a doctor's office as a patient or to support her siblings, in a grocery store, or wherever people gathered.

She was devoted to her faith. Even through her illness, she regularly prayed the rosary and read Psalm 91, which was her favorite. Her belief in Christ and gratitude for God’s grace were central to her life. Angelica remained strong and positive, comforted by the support of friends and family.

In addition to her culinary talents, Angelica had a lifelong passion for reading, gardening, sewing, crocheting, and singing Cape Verde mornas and other favorite American songs. Her journey from Cabo Verde to America gave her a unique perspective on life. She created a fulfilling life for herself and her daughters. She communicated in English, Crioulo, and Portuguese. Despite some language barriers, she demonstrated that integrity is universal.

She will be deeply missed.

Angelica was predeceased by her siblings Maria Mendes, Viriato Mendes, John J. Pereira, and Ana Vincente. She is survived by her daughter Edith DeBarros and son-in-law Shawn O'Brien, her grandson Wesley O'Brien, and her daughter Liz DeBarros. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Jack Pereira, Joann Pereira, Joseph Pereira, and the late George Burgo.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am on Saturday, September 14, at St. Anthony's Church, 32 Lawn Avenue, Pawtucket, with burial to follow at Mt. St. Mary Cemetery, 661 Prospect Street, Pawtucket. Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 13, from 4 pm to 7 pm at Keefe Funeral Home, Five Higginson Avenue.
For those who wish to send flowers, they are also appreciated and may be directed to Keefe Funeral Home. Florist: Blossoms Design Boutique, 160 Smithfield Avenue, Pawtucket, RI.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dr. Thomas Ollila’s Tour de Rhody event on September 22 for cancer research in Angelica's memory. Donate at pledgereg.com/tourderhody.