Barbara J. "Careless" Rezendes

East Providence - Barbara J. (Careless) Rezendes,89, a cherished seamstress, devoted mother, and beloved member of the East Providence community, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at home just one day shy of her 90th birthday. Born on August 21, 1935, in North Hampton, England, Barbara's life was marked by her loving nature, selfless spirit, and kindness that touched all who knew her.

The daughter of the late William and Flossie (Smith) Careless, Barbara grew up in a warm household where she developed a passion for the arts of sewing, knitting, and crocheting, skills that would define her career and hobbies for years to come. As a young woman, she demonstrated her craftsmanship at Pattons Manufacturing of England, where her talents as a seamstress were well recognized and appreciated.

In 1960, Barbara embarked on a new chapter of her life when she moved to the United States, bringing her talents and loving heart across the Atlantic. She continued to be an active and engaged member of her new community, becoming a parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church, where her faith and dedication to service shone brightly.

Barbara's life was enriched by her marriage to the late Manuel Rezendes, with whom she shared many happy years. Together, they raised a family that included their children, Adam M. Rezendes and his husband Christopher John of Reynoldsville, PA, Kerry L. Mutti and her husband Ian of Riverside, and Shelly Hermoian and her husband James of East Providence. She was a source of unwavering support and affection for her grandchildren, Jason Hermoian, Rachel Hermoian, and Sophia Mutti, who will forever cherish memories of their grandmother's love and guidance.

Family was the cornerstone of Barbara's life, and she was a nurturing presence to her late siblings, Irene Meeks, Joan Hopewell, and Edna May Careless. Her role as a Cub Scout den mother exemplified her commitment to nurturing the young and her desire to contribute positively to the lives of others.

Barbara's interests were as varied as they were joyful. She found pleasure in dancing, gardening, travel, and the culinary arts of baking and cooking. Her love for animals was another testament to her compassionate nature, and her home was always a welcoming space for both people and pets alike.

Those who knew Barbara will remember her for the love she poured into every aspect of her life. Whether she was creating beautiful garments, tending to her garden, or preparing a family meal, she did so with a sense of purpose and joy. Her selflessness was evident in the way she cared for her family and contributed to her community.

As we bid farewell to Barbara J. (Careless) Rezendes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit, encapsulated in the threads of her creations and the warmth of her home, will remain a comforting presence in the lives of her family and friends. Barbara's journey through life was one of grace and devotion, and she will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, August 26,2025 at 8:00am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Francis Xavier Church, 81 North Carpenter Street, East Providence.

Burial will follow in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery,301 South County Trail, Exeter, RI at 11:30am.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Tuesday from 8:00am – 9:30am in the funeral home.

www.rebellofuneralhomes.com