Joana Cardoso

Joana Ribeiro Cardoso, a beloved matriarch, devoted servant of God, and pillar of strength, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering faith. Joana’s life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and education, touching the hearts of all who knew her.

Born in São Vicente, Cape Verde, Joana immigrated to America, where she worked tirelessly to bring her entire family to this country, creating opportunities for a better life. Her determination and selflessness shone brightly as she helped raise her grandchildren, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and faith. Although she never had the opportunity to pursue formal schooling, she held education in the highest regard. At 50, Joana bravely attended classes to learn English, a testament to her belief that learning never ends.

Joana was a woman of vibrant spirit—funny, yet tough, with a heart full of love and a no-nonsense approach to life. She built her home in Cape Verde, where she created a warm and welcoming haven for her family. Her passions included God, cooking delicious meals, dancing with joy, and nurturing her plants, through which she found peace.

Joana’s legacy is one of profound faith in God, an unyielding work ethic, and a commitment to being a good person. These values live on in her children: Adriano Ribeiro Gomes, Zacka Ribeiro Gomes, Roberto Ribeiro Cardoso, Amilcar Ribeiro Cardoso, Aristides Ribeiro Cardoso, and Albertina Ribeiro Cardoso. Her love extended to her cherished grandchildren: Jeremy Gomes, Monica Gomes, Nonika Nevels, Indya Gomes, Zacka Gomes, Aja Gomes, Lianna Cardoso, Serena Cardoso, Lea Serena, Nadia Fernandes, Daryus Cardoso, Deimari Cardoso, and a host of great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Joana was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Manuel Goncalves. In addition to her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren, she is survived by her sister, Maria Filomena Gonçalves, as well as many nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply.

Joana Ribeiro Cardoso’s life was a beacon of love, faith, and strength. Her memory will forever inspire those who knew her to live with purpose, kindness, and devotion to family.

Rest in eternal peace, Joana. Your light will shine on through the lives of everyone you touched.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.