Rosa Ferreira

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rosa Maria Ferreira, who departed this world on March 10, 2025 at the age of 76 in Boston, MA. A woman of unshakable faith, boundless generosity, and unwavering dedication to family, Rosa leaves behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, and strength that will be cherished for generations to come.
Born in Santiago, Dominican Republic, Rosa came to the United States at the age of 18, carrying with her the wisdom and guidance of her mother's words. Determined to build a strong foundation, she made it her mission to establish a home where family would always be the cornerstone. Through perseverance and tireless dedication, she not only achieved her dream of homeownership but also ensured that each of her loved ones had the opportunity to thrive. One by one, she helped bring her family to the United States, guiding them toward citizenship and a brighter future.
Alongside her devoted husband, Pedro Velez, Rosa created a home that served as a sanctuary for anyone in need. Whether family or friend, she opened her doors with warmth and open arms, offering shelter, guidance, and unwavering support. Her life was a testament to the values of hard work, resilience, and selflessness-values she lovingly instilled in her children: Manuel, Jose, Deborah Ferreira, and her adopted son, Victor Velez.
Rosa dedicated many years of her life working for Western Electric before transitioning to a role as a bus monitor, a position she held until her final days. She firmly believed that work was not just a duty but a virtue-an outlook she passed on to all who knew her.
A devout Christian, Rosa's faith was the foundation of her life. She attended church regularly, often three times a week, and even contributed to the construction of a church in her hometown of Santiago. She believed that a life without faith was not a life truly lived.
Outside of her devotion to family and faith, Rosa found joy in life's simple pleasures. An avid gardener, she spent countless hours tending to her beloved orchids, roses, and lilies, filling her home with beauty and color. She delighted in sharing oranges on the patio with neighbors, feeding stray animals with a compassionate heart, and decorating her gardens with whimsical figures-her favorite being turtles and flamingos.
Rosa is survived by her beloved husband, Pedro Velez; her cherished children: Manuel, Jose, Deborah Ferreira, and Victor Velez; as well as her nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Though she is no longer physically with us, her love, wisdom, and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Calling hours will be held at Cataudella Funeral Home, 126 Pleasant Valley Street, Methuen, MA, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Lawrence.
Rosa's life was a shining example of love, faith, and devotion. While she may have left this earthly world, her spirit remains ever-present, blooming like the flowers she so dearly loved, in the lives of those she touched.