Guilhermina "Mina Camilo" Santos

Guilhermina "Mina" (Camilo) Santos, a beacon of love and faithfulness, passed away peacefully at her home on August 20, 2025, at the age of 101 surrounded by her loving daughters. Born on February 16, 1924, in the picturesque island of Brava, Cabo Verde, Mina was the cherished daughter of Manuel Camilo and Madalena Lopes and shared her childhood with 13 siblings who are all predeceased. Her life was a testament to devotion, as she poured her heart into her family and her faith.

Mina's journey led her to a beautiful union with her late husband, Afonso F. Santos, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and companionship. Together, they built a family grounded in the values of love, respect, and integrity. Mina's legacy is carried on through her five daughters: Madalena Monteiro and her husband John of Phoenixville PA; Matilde Santos of Medford, MA; Ines Flores and her husband Charles of California; Maria Santos of Holbrook, MA; and Manuela Santos and her companion Arthur of Swansea, MA. Each of her children embodies the strength and compassion that Mina exemplified throughout her life.

Mina's legacy of love continues through her grandchildren, who affectionately called her Vovo, Christina, Michelle,Joanna, Keila and Alex, and her great-grandchildren, Maya and Nina. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and her sister-in-law Ana Camilo who she held near to her heart.

A woman of unwavering faith, Mina found solace and strength in reading the Bible and was a devoted member of St. Joseph Church. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her daily life and in the peaceful presence she maintained, even in times of adversity. Mina's love for her family was immeasurable, and she dedicated her entire life to nurturing and guiding her children and grandchildren. She took immense pride in all their accomplishments and was a constant source of encouragement and support.

Mina's loving nature extended beyond her family. She was greatly loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her home was always filled with the tantalizing aromas of her cooking, a skill she wielded with passion, creating meals that not only nourished the body but also the soul. Her garden was a reflection of her inner beauty, flourishing under her tender care. Conversations with Mina, whether with family or friends, were always heartfelt and uplifting.

In her serene moments, Mina found joy in the simplicity of life. Her hands, often seen clasped around a rosary or a gardening tool, were a symbol of her dedication to both her faith and the earth. She was a pillar of her community, always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand.

Mina Santos lived a life rich in love and faith. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. Mina's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to those she held dear. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love will endure forever in the lives she touched. As Mina always said "Deus ba cu bo" (May God be with you).

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, August 27th, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM in the Cartwright-Venuti Funeral Home, 845 Washington St., Braintree. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28th, 10am at St. Joseph Church, 153 S Franklin St, Holbrook. A Burial will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery, 920 Adams St, Dorchester Center, MA 02124