Mary Gouveia

Mary (Rapoza) Gouveia, 94, of Fall River, passed away on May 20, 2020 after a long illness. “Mae” as she was lovingly called by her family and friends was born on June 24, 1925. She was the daughter of Miguel and Alpeta Rapoza. Mae’s marriage to Albert Gouveia spanned 69 years. She spent her life in Fall River and Dartmouth.

Mae attended Fall River schools. She worked as a seamstress in various mills for several years but left the workforce when she started her family.

Mae’s family was the focus of her life. Mae leaves behind her devoted husband Albert, her daughter Mary Anne Gouveia Dufault and her husband Normand of New Bedford and her son David Gouveia and his wife Kita of Somerset. She leaves her grandson Nathan Dufault, his wife Kristen and great-grandson Michael. She also leaves grandchildren Tracy Fiorillo and her husband Nick, Jessica Medeiros and her husband Adam and Erik Krowal and his partner Patricia, and great-grandchildren Sophia, Frankie, Ayden, Vicktorya and Arianna. She leaves behind her sisters Helen Mello, Patricia Richner and her brother Michael Rapoza and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings Manuel Rapoza and Antone Rapoza as well as siblings lost in childhood, Joseph, Philomena and Michael.

Mae was a member of Calvary Temple Church, serving as a greeter for many years. Mae’s faith in Jesus Christ was evident to all. Mae read her bible faithfully, shared her faith enthusiastically and was a tireless prayer warrior.

Mae was a cheerful, loving person who always had a smile for everyone. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends.

Contributions in her honor can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Rd, Waltham, MA 02452

Due to the current restrictions on public gatherings services are private. Arrangements are in the care of the WARING-SULLIVAN HOME at Cherry Place, 178 Winter Street, Fall River, MA 02720. To leave a note of condolence: www.waring-sullivan.com