Antonia Do Souto

Antonia Do Souto, affectionately known as "Nhantonha," "Dadoda," or "Vovó," passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the remarkable age of 105.

Born in Cabo Verde, Fogo on July 14, 1920, Nhantonha lived a long and beautiful life filled with love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was the proud mother of seven children: Mery, Judite, Marilé, Filipe, Luzia, Djedje, and Agusta. Her legacy lives on through her 37 beloved grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson, each of whom she cherished deeply.

In 1991, Nhantonha immigrated to the United States, where she worked tirelessly to reunite her family and offer them a better quality of life. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the mouthwatering aroma of traditional Cape Verdean meals she prepared with love. She had a natural gift for storytelling, enjoyed playing "orin", and found great joy in watching her favorite telenovelas. She also loved sipping a glass of wine with her meals, something many lovingly joked was her secret to a long life.

Nhantonha was known for her generosity, grace, and the deep love she had for her growing family. She shared a unique and special bond with each of her children, nurturing them with care and wisdom. Her grandchildren will always remember her warm, contagious smile and the sweet treats she lovingly had ready for them each time they visited. These simple gestures, filled with love, will be cherished forever. Nhantonha's legacy of love, laughter, and warmth lives on in all who knew her.

Nhantonha touched countless lives with her kindness, strength, and deep faith. She always believed in the power of prayer and leaves behind a legacy of love, unity, and resilience that will continue to inspire generations to come.

She is survived by her four siblings: Paulinha, Tata, Olivio, and Nica, as well as a large extended family and community who will miss her dearly.

And just as she would lovingly say whenever we were heading out, we now say to her:
"Que Deus bai ku nha y recebeu de braço abertu."
(May God go with you and receive you with open arms.)

May she rest in eternal peace.
Until we meet again, you will always live in our hearts.