Joaquina S. Simoes

Joaquina "Jackie" S. (Sousa) Simoes, of West Hartford, passed away on November 3, 2025. She was the beloved wife of David Simoes for 53 years. Born in Lisbon, Portugal on June 1st, 1943, the daughter of the late Mario and Clarise (Silva) Sousa. Jackie resided in Lisbon for the first 16 years of her life before coming to the United States where she was welcomed with open arms by her father, Mario, and his wife, Mary.
Jackie was an incredible cook and could always be found at the stove with a smile on her face during many large family gatherings. Jackie took great pride in everything she did-her home, her Portuguese heritage, her work at Travelers and later at Cigna, where she was given a prestigious award. She thoroughly enjoyed being an active member of the Travelers Women's Club for many years. In addition, Jackie was a huge fan of the UConn Women's Basketball team. Jackie was always there for her family, and would do anything for them.
Jackie leaves behind her husband, David, to whom she was devoted, and her brothers, Joseph and his wife Otilia Sousa of Newington, Frank and his wife Linda Sousa of West Hartford, Mario Jr. and his wife, Anne Sousa of Newington. She also leaves her nephews and nieces, Joseph Sousa Jr, David Sousa, Frank C. Sousa, Darryl Sousa, Benjamin Sousa, Annie Tentindo, Nicholas Sousa, Emily Sousa and Matthew Sousa. Jackie also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Dolores Simoes of Avon. Jackie was predeceased by her parents, her cherished grandparents, Jose and Basaliza Sousa, Constantino and Maria (Belita) de Sousa and her much beloved dogs, Ginger and Molly. Jackie also leaves to mourn her loss many extended family members and friends too numerous to mention. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of West Hartford Health and Rehabilitation Center and Masonic care for their care of Jackie.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Duksa Family Funeral Homes at Newington Memorial, 20 Bonair Avenue, Newington. A funeral service will begin directly after at 11:00 a.m. at Newington Memorial. Jackie will be laid to rest at West Meadow Cemetery, 679 Willard Avenue, Newington. Please make donations in Jackie's memory to The Parkinson's Foundation or any charity of your choice. To share a memory with her family, please visit us at www.duksa.net.