Jesse Ferreira Afonso

Riverside - Jesse F. Afonso,98, a cherished patriarch and beacon of love, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Cherry Hill Manor in Johnston. Born in the quaint village of Arrifes, Azores, Portugal on April 1, 1927, Jesse's life was a testament to the enduring power of faith, family, and hard work. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Dorothy (Francis) Afonso, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a great-grandfather who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he loved.
Jesse was the beloved son of the late Manuel and Maria (Moniz) Afonso. He was a brother, uncle, and friend, predeceased by his siblings Manuel Afonso, Evelyn Freitas, Natalia Raposa, and Maria Morgado. His legacy continues through his children: Kathy Wilson and her late husband Scott of Coventry, Jesse M. Afonso of East Providence, John and Elizabeth Afonso of Riverside, and Kevin and Elizabeth Afonso of Greenville. Jesse's jovial spirit lives on in his grandchildren Justin, Kate, Patrick, Courtney, Jacob, and Krysta, as well as his great-grandchildren Orion, Ludwig, and Damon, all of whom he adored. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Jesse's life was marked by dedication and service, having spent over two decades as a committed steelworker at the Washburn Wire Company. His strong work ethic was paralleled by his unwavering commitment to his faith as a longstanding parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church. After years of hard work, Jesse enjoyed a sun-filled retirement in Deltona, Florida, before returning to Rhode Island, where he lived in Barrington and later in Riverside.
An avid gardener, Jesse found solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His hands, weathered from years of labor, tenderly cared for his plants, nurturing them to flourish just as he nurtured his relationships with family and friends. Fishing was another of Jesse's passions, a hobby through which he cultivated patience and shared countless moments of camaraderie and reflection by the water's edge.
Jesse was a man defined by his loving kindness and faith-filled heart. He approached life with a gentle demeanor, a warm smile, and an open hand, always ready to help those in need. His generosity of spirit and unwavering kindness earned him the love and respect of all who knew him.
As we bid farewell to Jesse F. Afonso, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey filled with love and cherished memories. He was a man who inspired those around him to live with compassion and integrity. Jesse's legacy will continue to guide and comfort us, as his memory remains a blessing to all whose lives he touched.
We honor the memory of Jesse, a man who embodied the true essence of a life well-lived, and we take solace in knowing that his spirit will forever be a guiding light for his family and friends. Rest in peace, dear Jesse. Your love and the lessons you imparted will forever be treasured.
His funeral will be held on Friday at 8:00am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30am in St. Francis Xavier Church, 81 North Carpenter Street, East Providence.
Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Friday MORNING from 8:00 -9:00am in the funeral home.
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