Taunton, Maria Tomasia Sousa, a Taunton resident for over twenty one years, died on Monday, February 8, 2010 at Longmeadow of Taunton, after a lengthy illness. She was 89 years of age. She was born in St. Michael, Azores daughter of the late Manuel Sousa Mello and Maria Margarida. She was also the wife of the late Manuel Mendes. Prior to coming to Taunton she lived in the Azores for most of her life. At the time of her death she was a retired homemaker while she was in the Azores. In her earlier years she worked for TWA Airlines in the Azores. Mrs. Sousa liked cooking and while in the Azores she cooked for many Politicians and Dignitaries, who requested her services at many gatherings. She was a very happy person,she enjoyed an excellent life, and was very polite and courteous to others. She will be sadly missed by her son Valdemar and his wife Gilda who cared for Mrs. Sousa for many years. She is survived by one son, Valdemar Mendes and his wife Gilda of Taunton. She was the sister of the late Olinda Carreiro, Antonio Sousa, Raul Sousa and Alferdo Sousa. She also leaves several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Sousa’s funeral services will be held on Saturday at 8:15am at the Taunton Funeral Home, 8 Crapo St. (off Tremont St.) followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 9am at St. Anthony’s Church in Taunton. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Friday from 4-8pm. Burial will be in St.Joseph's Cemetery. Arrangements made by the Taunton Funeral Home, 8 Crapo St. (off Tremont St.) J. Kevin Corbett Funeral Director 508-821-7771.