With heavy hearts we announce that José Braz Matos Santos passed away, March 9th, 2024 at the age of 73. He will be forever cherished by his wife Deodete (nee Oliveira) and his children Claudette (late Christopher) Gutteridge, Ezekiel Santos, Nathaniel (Domminique) Santos and Gabriela (Adam) Childs. José is the loved avô of Selina, Elijah, Tristan, Diego, Isabelle, Juliette, Miguel, Sophia, Anthony, Andre, Dominic, Philip and Baby Childs. Son of the late Rosa das Matas and António dos Santos. Beloved brother of Juvenália (António), Dagoberto (Fatima), Duarte (Gilda) Justinina (Jorge), Fatima, IlÃdio (Nina) Fr. Manuel António, Rosa, João (Monica), Lucia (Fernando).
Jose Braz was a dedicated husband, father and avô. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 45 years. He was a strong and great example of wisdom and guidance to his 4 well-loved children, and a fun-loving grandfather to 13 grandchildren. Born in the Azores, raised in Angola Africa, and after serving for 3 years in the military, he was forced to leave due to the rising conflict of war.
Finally making his way to Canada and marrying, he became a hardworking provider of his family. When he wasn’t at work, he loved to be with the family tending to the needs of the homestead.
Community life was very important to him. Soon after coming to Canada, he was involved in helping build up the Portuguese community through helping with various festivals, clubs and mass celebrations. He was also involved in various faith programs through the Knights of Columbus, Cursillo and COR.
He will always be remembered by family and friends as a gentle soul, filled with faith, who many sought guidance from.
He will be greatly missed.
Family and Friends are invited for visitation at the Haycock-Cavanagh Funeral Home, 409 Nelson Street in Wallaceburg (519-627-3231), on Sunday, March 17, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. His Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Church on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 11am with burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of charitable donations please consider honouring José Braz’s faith by requesting a memorial mass at your local parish. Cherished stories and tributes may be left for the family at www.CavanaghFuneralHome.ca.
