Maria Lourdes Furtado passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on January 21, 2025.

She was born on January 25, 1939, in Ponta da Faja Grande, Flores, Acores and the last surviving member of her immediate family. Maria immigrated to the United States in 1956 and lived in Arcata until 2002, before moving to McKinleyville.

Maria started working as soon as she got to the United States. Her first job was in the kitchen at the Big 4 Inn and she continued working in commercial kitchens at the Eureka Inn and Jolly Giant Commons at HSU. She retired in 2001 to care for her Mother.

Our Aunt truly spent her life in service to others. She learned to speak English soon after arriving in the United States and would drive new immigrants to their appointments and help translate for them. She was a devout Catholic and attended daily mass for many years.

Every holiday Maria selflessly prepared an amazing meal. It brought her great joy to be caring for her family and spending time together. Maria was an early advocate for the homeless, purchasing and preparing monthly meals for the unhoused in Arcata. She enjoyed gardening and flowers. She always had freshly cut flowers to put at her parents’ grave. Many hours were spent enjoying daily walks. Maria was a talented crocheter, creating many heirloom keepsakes that we will treasure.

Maria is survived by her niece Diane (David) Sloane, nephews Rev. Jose Furtado, Jim (Keri) Furtado and Steve (Lorrie) Furtado, grandnieces Kelsey Sloane & Jenna Furtado, grandnephews Justin Furtado & Ryan Sloane, sister-in-law Fatima Furtado, and cousins in Canada, Massachusetts and in Flores, Acores.

She is preceded in death by her beloved parents Alberto L. & Serafina L. Furtado, brothers Angelo L. Furtado and Pedro N. Furtado.

A rosary followed by a funeral mass will be held at 10:45 a.m. January 29th at Christ the King Catholic Church at 1951 McKinleyville Avenue, McKinleyville. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Arcata.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Eureka Rescue Mission, St. Vincent DePaul’s Dining Facility, or donor’s favorite charity.