Maria Albertina Furtado passed away peacefully at her home on October 21, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Albertina was born on January 31, 1945, in São Mateus, Pico, Azores. In 1959, at the age of 14, she moved with her mother and sister to Flores, Azores. A few years later, she met the love of her life, Luis M. Furtado. The two were married on February 3, 1962, beginning a lifelong journey together; they celebrated 40 years of marriage.

In search of new opportunities, Albertina and Luis immigrated to the United States, arriving in Arcata on March 6, 1966. Albertina began working 20 years at the Thunderbird Lodge in Eureka and later joined Holly Yashi in Arcata, where she spent 23 years working, forming lasting friendships and eventually retiring.

Albertina found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved collecting stamps, tending to her garden and caring for her beloved flowers. Albertina and Luis traveled to Europe and all over the United States and treasured their trips to all the missions of California She was also a devoted member of the Society of Holy Trinity, where she generously gave her time and helped for many years.

Albertina was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Deolinda Matos, and her beloved husband, Luis Furtado.

She is survived locally by her sister, Deolinda Sousa; her sister-in-law, Lucilia Fraga; her nieces, Leonilda McLaughlin and Linda Sturges, and her nephews, Gary Sousa and Michael Fraga. She also leaves behind many relatives throughout the United States, Canada and the Azores who will cherish her memory.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who provided Albertina with outstanding care, kindness and support over the past three years. Your compassion and dedication meant so much to her and her family.

Family and friends are invited to attend her services on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. The Rosary will begin at 10:45 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are being made under the direction of Sanders Funeral Home.

Albertina will be remembered for her dedication, her love of family, her friendships and the quiet joys she found in life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

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