Ana Margarida Homem
April 21, 1944 – May 26, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ana Margarida Homem, who entered eternal rest on May 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Ana was born on April 21, 1944, in São Paulo, Brasil, to Francisco and Olinda Gomes. As a young girl, her family relocated to Rio de Janeiro. She often spoke fondly of her childhood, especially the days spent playing beneath the tamarind tree near her family home. Growing up alongside her siblings Nicolau, Antonio Joaquin, Afonso, Florinda, and Linda, Ana learned the values that would define her life: faith, hard work, generosity, humility and an unwavering devotion to family.

One of the most influential people in Ana’s life was her grandfather, Nicolau. Throughout her entire life, she spoke of him with tremendous admiration and respect. She often credited him for shaping her outlook on life and admired his ambition, intelligence and discipline to provide for his family. He acquired and developed properties that provided homes and opportunities for his family — many of which continue to be enjoyed by his descendants to this day. Ana was deeply proud of the legacy he created and often pointed to him as an example of what foresight, determination and hard work could accomplish. She would also speak of her grandmother Ana, whom she was named after, as being an “angel” on earth.

Another profound influence on Ana’s life was her father and mother, Francisco Gomes, a respected Portuguese fado lyricist and performer, and Olinda Gomes, a well-spoken and respected accountant. Ana often spoke lovingly of her parents and grandparents and carried their lessons with her throughout her life.

Ana was exceptionally bright from a young age and was the most educated member of her family. She earned admission to a prestigious secondary school through her academic achievements, and later pursued higher education before working at the renowned Oswaldo Cruz Institute laboratory.

It was during her years working in Rio de Janeiro that she first noticed a young butcher named Avelino Homem. Each day, she would pass his butcher shop on her way to and from the bus stop while commuting to work. Though they noticed one another, their paths had not yet formally crossed.

That changed one evening when Ana’s father was performing. Ana’s mother suggested inviting Avelino and his sister Maria José, knowing they would appreciate Portuguese music. That evening proved life-changing, as Ana and Avelino formally met for the first time.

They began dating soon afterward and they married on January 10, 1965, beginning a love story that would span more than six decades. Later that year, they immigrated to the United States. Sponsored by Avelino’s sister Gabriela Murphy and brother-in-law Robert Murphy, they settled in Arcata, California. Ana and Avelino never forgot the opportunity Bob and Gabriela provided for their young family.

Leaving Brasil was one of the most difficult moments of Ana’s life. Throughout the years, she would often tell the story of saying goodbye to her family. Even decades later, tears would fill her eyes as she recalled the heartbreak of leaving them behind. Though separated by distance, she remained deeply connected to her brasileiro roots.

Although Ana left Brasil in 1965, she never truly left her family behind. She remained a source of support, encouragement and generosity for relatives across Brasil. She believed that blessings were meant to be shared and took enormous pride in seeing her family thrive. Though she built her life in America, her love and generosity continued to reach across borders and generations, touching the lives of countless relatives throughout Brasil.

Modern technology became one of her greatest joys, and she faithfully stayed connected with family through daily WhatsApp conversations. Hardly a day passed without her checking in on her family and friends. She especially treasured the family group chat affectionately known as “Casa da Vovó Linda,” where stories, photographs and daily updates flowed constantly. Whether offering encouragement during difficult times or sharing in life’s happy moments, Ana remained a central figure in the lives of her family members across Brasil. Her voice, wisdom and unwavering love were a daily presence for those she cherished most.

Upon arriving in Arcata, Ana was embraced by Avelino’s large Portuguese family. She developed a close relationship with her mother-in-law, Amelia Homem. The two spent countless days together running errands, shopping, paying bills and sharing life’s joys and challenges. Ana often spoke of the wisdom Amelia passed down to her and treasured their bond. Amelia would often tell her, “Uma boa nora é como uma filha, ou mais” — “A good daughter-in-law is like a daughter, or more.” It was a sentiment that perfectly reflected the love and respect they shared.

Ana was a pillar of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Arcata and could almost always be found seated in her beloved front-center pew at Sunday Mass. She generously volunteered her time supporting church activities, festas at the Portuguese Hall and community gatherings. Some of the best times of her and Avelino’s life were serving at the Portuguese hall with friends and family.

One of the first goals Ana and Avelino achieved in America was becoming citizens. Ana was immensely proud of her citizenship and grateful for the opportunities America provided her family. They fully embraced the American Dream and built a life centered on faith, family and opportunity, never forgetting the blessings they had been given or the loved ones who helped them along the way.

One of those lasting friendships was Lois Leigh, a real estate agent, who guided them in purchasing properties around Arcata. Maintaining those rentals kept them busy and led to lifelong friendships with many exceptional tenants.

Simple pleasures brought her happiness. Few things delighted her more than a beautiful sunny day — a “dia de sol.” She loved hanging laundry outside on her clothesline, tending to her home and enjoying the comforts of everyday life. She often reminded those around her, “There’s no place like home.”

Ana was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother. Nothing brought Ana greater joy than her family. She took immense pride in raising her four children and watching her family grow. To her grandchildren, she was simply Grandma and Vovó. She delighted in attending their activities, hearing their stories, and celebrating every milestone. Her love was constant, unconditional and deeply felt by every member of her family.

Ana’s greatest gift was caring for others. She expressed her love through food, hospitality and service. Her garage kitchen became legendary amongst all, serving as the setting for countless meals, holiday gatherings and family celebrations. She was widely known as an exceptional cook whose recipes could never quite be replicated. Many were nursed back to health with her chicken soup made with so much love. Family members often joked that every attempt to recreate her recipes somehow fell short. Ana found immense joy in bringing people together around the table. Their home was always open, their table always full, and their hearts always ready to help someone in need.

Ana’s wisdom was one of her defining traits. Family members often sought her advice, knowing she would have the perfect saying for any situation. Her memorable expressions included “Fé em Deus e pé na tábua” (“Faith in God and foot on the pedal”), “Um rei nunca perde a sua majestade” (“A king never loses his majesty”) and “I don’t want it, I don’t need it, I don’t deserve it.” Her humor, practical wisdom and one-liners became part of the fabric of family life and will continue to be repeated for generations.

Ana especially loved family vacations — the planning, the road trips, the food and the simple pleasure of being together in a new place. Over the years, Avelino and Ana visited loved ones across Brasil and Portugal and created treasured memories with close friends on cruises to Alaska, through the Panama Canal and to the Hawaiian Islands. She especially loved visiting her grandchildren who lived in the sun. Though she loved her travels, nothing brought her more joy than a day at home with Avelino.

For more than sixty-one years, Ana and Avelino shared a love that was extraordinary. They were true soulmates, best friends and constant companions. They never grew tired of talking with one another. They delighted in the simple moments, whether taking a drive, planning a vacation, dressing alike on trips, attending Mass, or simply sitting side by side at the end of the day. Together they built a family, raised children, cherished grandchildren and created a legacy rooted in love.

Following Avelino’s passing earlier this year, Ana spoke daily of how much she missed him. Though her family wished for more time, they find comfort in knowing that the reunion she longed for has finally come. The love story that began more than sixty years ago did not end with goodbye. Ana has returned to the arms of her beloved husband. As she would always say: “Meu querido, meu velho, meu amigo” — my love, my old man, my friend.

Ana was preceded in death by her beloved husband and best friend, Avelino Homem, her parents, Francisco and Olinda Gomes; her siblings Linda Gomes Cabral and Antonio Joaquin Gomes; her parents-in-law, Amelia and José Homem; and her brothers- and sisters-in-law, Dulcinea Gomes, Sylvio Abreu da Silva, Fernando Sergio Cabral, Gabriela and Robert Murphy, Jose Homem, Fernando Lourenço, Albino Homem, David Homem, Antonio Lourenço, Maria José Dematos, Maria dos Santos Rafael and Natalia Oliveira.

She is survived by her siblings Florinda Gomes da Silva, Afonso Gomes (Neide) and Nicolau Gomes; her children Frank Homem (Betsy), Richard Homem (Wendy), Diana Cavinta (George) and Margo Shimy (Camron); her sisters-in-law Durvalina Machado, Gloria Homem, Jorlanda Lourenço, Maria de Lourdes Homem and Ana Paula Homem; her cherished grandchildren Briana Cavinta, John Homem, Dillon Homem (Nichelle), Georgie Cavinta, Mason Homem, Andrew Cavinta, Mike Homem, Gabriela Cavinta, Lucas Shimy and Liam Shimy; her beloved great-grandchild Makana Homem; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and loving relatives throughout Brasil, Portugal and the United States.

A recitation of the Rosary will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Arcata, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow in the narthex and Interment will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Ana Homem’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.