Our Beloved Wanda Ponte, age 47, of Dedham, MA. is one of the newest Angels in Heaven, as of Saturday, September 26, 2009. She was surrounded by family as she made her transition to heaven.
Wanda was born on November 29, 1961 and raised in New Bedford, MA. She graduated from Northeastern University's School of Nursing in 1986. She worked at MGH her whole career dedicating her life to the care of others who came her way, especially offering hope to those with ovarian cancer. Wanda was very involved in raising public awareness of ovarian cancer through OCEAN a non profit, member support organization, founded by ovarian cancer survivors and supporters. Its mission is to increase awareness, and promote education.
Wanda loved life, family, friends, and animals. She traveled to many places, but Bermuda was her favorite because family resided there. She will be remembered for her gentle healing touch, compassion, kind words, joy and laughter, sense of humor, and the hope she spread for those dealing with cancer.
Her loved ones left behind include her adoring mother, Lena Ponte, of South Dartmouth, her dad, Al Ponte of New Bedford and his wife Brenda; two sisters, Debbie Souza, of East Freetown, and husband Bob, and Cindy Gross, of Lincoln, and husband Jerry; her only nephew and niece, Aaron and Erica Souza of East Freetown; a special uncle, Manny Ponte, of New Bedford, and many other uncles, aunts, and cousins; numerous friends, her mentor Barbara Browne of South Dartmouth, and her adoring, precious "cat", Chester.
Her funeral mass will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2009, at 9 AM, St. Mary of the Assumption, 420 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Wanda's name to OCEAN at MGH, Development Office, 165 Cambridge St. Suite 600, Boston, MA 02114.
"Part of our hearts have gone with her."