Rita (Barbosa) Dantas of Rockland, MA, passed away on October 25, 2025 following a period of declining health.
She was born in Sao Vicente, Cape Verde on November 16, 1933, to Ida and Jorge Barbosa. Rita spent her early years in Cape Verde before marrying Frank and moving to the United States. Rita and Frank were active in the Cape Verdean community, with Frank serving for several years as the President of the Ideal Club of East Bridgewater.
Rita worked in the textile industry before retiring. She loved to crochet, sew, and prepare amazing meals for those she loved. Being around friends and family brought a special joy to Rita. Her and her husband shared a love of music and dancing.
Rita is predeceased by her husband Frank Dantas, and her brothers Jorge Pedro Barbosa and Jorge Eduardo Barbosa.
Rita is survived by her sisters Maria Machadinho and her husband Joao of Rockland and Zilda Estrela of Cape Verde. She leaves behind her nephew Michael Machadinho of Upton, MA with whom she shared a special bond. Rita is also survived by a large group of family and friends that will miss her dearly.
Family and friends are invited to attend Rita’s visiting hours on November 4th from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. A funeral Mass will be held on November 5th at 9:00 AM at the Holy Family Church, 403 Union Street, Rockland. A burial will follow at Holy Family Cemetery, 92 Centre Avenue, Rockland. After the services everyone will be invited back to the Ideal Club of East Bridgewater at 11:30 AM.