Joao Deus

Gomes

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joao Deus Gomes, who left this world peacefully on February 18, 2025, at the age of 70, following a battle with bacterial pneumonia. Joao passed away at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, embraced in the love of his family.
Born on April 30, 1954, in Vila Nova Sintra, Brava, Cabo Verde, Joao spent his earliest years on the picturesque islands of his homeland before moving to Senegal. It was there that he completed his education and commenced his career as a ship's captain, exemplifying a spirit of adventure as he transported cargo across the waters. He was the beloved son of the late Paulina Rosa de Gomes and Julio de Barros, the latter survived by his spouse Rita Martins de Barros of Pawtucket, RI.
In search of new opportunities and a quieter life, Joao settled in Chelsea, two decades ago. It was here that he found love and companionship in Maria Teresa Fortes de Brito, with whom he shared a devoted partnership and together raised three children. Their home radiated warmth and compassion, a testament to Joao's unwavering commitment to family.
For the last 20 years, Joao served as a fresh produce clerk at Demoulas' Market Basket in Somerville, where his dedication and work ethic left a lasting impression on both his colleagues and loyal customers. He was also an active member of St. Rose of Lima Church in Chelsea, where he engaged meaningfully with the community.
A true family man, Joao cherished every moment spent with loved ones. He had a profound passion for soccer and was a devoted supporter of Benfica of Portugal. His nurturing spirit extended to his nieces and nephews, who found in him a constant source of encouragement and guidance. Recently, Joao had eagerly anticipated returning to Cabo Verde to reconnect with family and friends.  Joao was preceded in death by his loving parents, whose memories he held dear throughout his life.
Joao leaves behind his beloved wife, Maria Teresa Fortes de Brito, and his cherished children, Eliza Rodrigues of Pawtucket, RI, Keven, and Paulino Brito de Gomes, both of Chelsea. His legacy will also be carried on by his adoring grandchildren Claudia Braz, and Deandre Evors, and his siblings: Julio de Gomes and Fatima de Gomes, both residing in Cabo Verde, as well as Ermilinda de Barros of Chelsea, Lucilia de Barros of Taunton, Diolinda de Barros of Pawtucket, RI, Enrico de Barros of Cabo Verde, and Alfredo Fortes of France. He is survived by a close circle of family and friends who will greatly miss his warm spirit and generous compassion.

Relatives and friends are most kindly invited to attend calling hours for Joao Deus de Gomes in the Welsh Funeral Home, 718 Broadway, Chelsea, on Monday, February 24th from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., allowing family and friends to share their memories and condolences.  His funeral will begin from the funeral home on Tuesday, February 25th at 9:00 A.M. Immediately followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Rose of Lima Church, 601 Broadway, Chelsea at 10:00 A.M. celebrating Joao's life and his enduring spirit.  Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden, where he will be laid to rest surrounded by loved ones, forever remembered as a man of integrity, love, and devotion.