Mary DeSouza Tavares, 96 of Alton Bay, NH formerly a lifelong resident of East Falmouth, MA died peacefully at home in July.

Mary was born in Waquoit, MA to her parents Antone and Margaret DeSouza, and was the eldest daughter in a family of nine children.  Because Mary's mother passed away at an early age, Mary left school at the age of 14 to care for her brothers and sisters.  It was a daunting task, but she was a loyal and loving family member, and did her utmost to provide what was needed to keep things running in the household.

Mary married Manuel R. Tavares in 1951 and the two settled in East Falmouth, MA where they provided a home for Mary's two younger sisters, Genevieve and Margaret, who at the time were in their teens. Mary and Manny also raised three daughters of their own (Renee, Carlene and Margaret), and were surrogate parents to countless other children and teens over the years.  Mary always provided a warm and nurturing home to anyone who needed a place to land, complete with meals, snacks and a comfortable place to rest. Mary's faith was the centerpiece of her life. She loved to pray, sing and share the love of Jesus with others.

Mary leaves her daughters: Renee Miller and her husband Jim, of Alton Bay, NH; Carlene Tavares of Lenox, MA; and Margaret Gallipoli and her husband, Ric of Hillsdale, NJ; 11 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Manny in 1995, as well as by all of her brothers and sisters (Tony, Louie, Frank, John, Manny, Genevieve, Margaret and Adiline).

A graveside service will be held at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in East Falmouth, MA at 10 a.m. on September 7, 2024. There will be no visiting hours. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Falmouth Senior Center.