Henrietta L. (Gonsalves) Fontes, of Taunton, passed away on February 9, 2021 at her residence with her loving daughter by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late James Fontes. A loving wife, mother, sister, aunt and grand aunt, Henrietta was born and raised in Taunton, the daughter of the late Edwin M. and Deminga (Lopes) Gonsalves. Mrs. Fontes is survived by her loving daughter Jodi A. Fontes-DeMattia Jr. and her spouse Nicholas of Taunton, MA; a sister, Antoinette Rezendes of Taunton, MA and brother, Norman P. Gonsalves of Texas and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by brothers: Edwin B. Gonsalves and William (Billy) Gonsalves and sisters: Linda Alves and .Eilleen Ann Gonsalves. Mrs. Fontes worked in manufacturing during her twenties before becoming a wife and mother then enjoyed being a homemaker. She later assisted seniors in caretaking, facilitating in-home aid and general care before moving onto a facilities job at the Silver City Galleria to lastly retiring and enjoying time with family, friends and adored pets. As a true Wilton understudy, she enjoyed decorating elaborate wedding and birthday cakes for family celebrations. Proud of her Cape Verdean heritage, she was an active member of the family's annual Cape Verdean Feast of St. Anne her entire life. Henrietta enjoyed a life of service, helping family, friends and strangers, in big ways and small, bringing a lighthearted positiveness umbrellaed under a caring spirit.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private viewing will be held. Those wishing to join the family for prayers at the grave-side may gather at the front entrance of Saint Joseph Cemetery 475 East Britannia St, Taunton at 11 am on Saturday, February 13, 2021. (You may park your cars on the right side on the main road of the cemetery, and join Henrietta's funeral procession when it arrives.
A memorial mass will be scheduled at a later date.
During all services, facial coverings and social distancing will be required. Those with with underlying conditions or in contact with
people with underlying conditions are asked to carefully consider your attendance. The family understands the difficulty of the choice in attending but *foremost* wants to ensure the safety of everyone.
For expressions of sympathy, to sign an online guestbook or to light a memorial candle, visit www.silvafuneralhome.com
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