Maria Soares was born in Terceira, an island in the Azores, on December 10, 1924, to Jose and Rosa Rafael. She married the love of her life, Jose Soares, on June 17, 1944, and they had three beautiful children. They moved to San Diego in 1959, and then to Arcata in 1960. Maria ran a small daycare for many years and loved to garden. She was also a very prominent person in the Portuguese community and St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Maria passed away peacefully on March 10, 2022, and left behind a huge family that adored her, many friends, and one very dear friend, Maria Pires.

Mrs. Soares is survived by her three Children, Jose Jr./Ginger Soares, Manual/Andrea Soares, and Maria Bellegante. Her Nephew Joe/Marly da Rosa. Her Grandchildren, Robbie/Debbie Soares, Michael/Jena Soares, Kimberly/Scott Luce, Kelly Bellegante, Jason Bellegante, Gerald/Johanna Soares, and Audra/Anthony Latimer. Her Great Grandchildren, Gregory Allen, Tyler Rickard, Dakota Edwards, Masci’o Latimer, Alyssa Castro, Cassandra Soares, Darren Soares, Dorshaela Wesson, Haley Soares, McKenna Soares, Ashley Soares, Kaitlyn Steele, and Alissa Richardson. She also had 3 Great-Great Grandchildren, and many more relatives.

Mrs. Soares was preceded in death by her Husband Jose Soares, Parents Jose and Rosa Rafael, Brother Jose Rafael, sister Rosa Azevedo, Maria da Rosa, Niece Mary Alice/Avelino Gonsalves, Cousin Eduard/Maria Rafael.

We would also like to give a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Humboldt for all the love they showered her with, and who made her final days comfortable and peaceful.

Rosary will be at Paul’s Chapel March 17. Viewing is from 6-7 p.m., and Rosary from 7-8 p.m. Mass will be at St. Mary’s Church in Arcata on Friday March 18, at 11 a.m., followed by burial at St. Mary’s cemetery. Reception to follow at the Portuguese Hall in Arcata.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Mary Soares’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.