Mrs. Rosa L. Furtado, 70, passed away on Sunday, December 16, 2018 surrounded by her loving and devoted family. She leaves behind her husband of 48 years, Manuel Antonio Furtado, Sr., her son Manuel Antonio Furtado, Jr. and her daughter, Cynthia Furtado Shaw (Matthew) as well as three grandchildren; Kirsty, Manuel and Branden and a great grandchild, Arabella.
Born and raised in Terceira, Azores, Rosa married in 1970 and moved to the United States with her new husband, leaving behind her parents, grandparents, extended family and her sister Albertina, and brother, Jose, who continue to reside there.
Rosa was an adoring wife and mother who lived life putting her family above all else. Her devotion and self-sacrifice continued to the very end as she always asked whether others were taking care of themselves properly. She was the beating heart of her family. Always calling to check inn on her son and daughter, cooking them lunch and dinner when she knew that they had busy days. She was her family’s biggest cheerleader, always reassuring and supportive. Rosa would drop anything she was doing to speak with her family. The daily and multiple conversations will be sorely missed.
Even after 48 years of marriage, Rosa and Manuel still had plenty to talk about. They were constantly chatting about everything and nothing as well as reminiscing and making future plans. During tropical vacations, they could be seen constantly together, going for long walks, talking and laughing.
Rosa was an avid gardener, spending countless hours caring for her plants and flowers and often times having to revive her daughter’s lifeless plants with her green thumb. She was an amazing cook who loved to cook for her loved ones, always ensuring that everyone was properly fed. In her spare time, she was an avid shopper and could often be found doing some retail therapy, as there was always something to buy, a trait that she fortunately passed down.
Rosa was the bond that kept traditions alive. She was the epitome of love and the keeper of her family’s hearts. Her loss leaves a void that can never be filled. Her presence and spirit will be greatly missed.
Rosa’s family will be receiving family and friends Saturday, December 22, 2018 from 9:00-10:00 AM in the Sansone Funeral Home, 192 Wood Street, Bristol, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in St. Elizabeth’s Church, 577 Wood Street, Bristol. Burial will be private. For online condolences, shared memories, information and directions go to www.sansonefuneralhome.com
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Mrs. Rosa L. (Melo) Furtado, please visit our floral store.