Ana Dos Santos Mwanga

July 29, 1958 – September 5, 2025

It is with deep love and reverence that we celebrate the life of Ana Maria Dos Santos Mwanga, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who peacefully transitioned from this life on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the age of 67.

Born on July 29, 1958, in Benguela, Angola, Ana Maria’s life was a tapestry woven with discipline, faith, resilience, and joy. She was the eldest child of Mateus Dos Santos and Madalena Dos Santos (Pederneira). Her father, a man of tenacity and strength, imparted in her a steadfast spirit, while her mother, devoted to God’s Word, instilled a deep and enduring love for the Lord. These foundations shaped Ana Maria into a woman who held herself—and those around her—to the highest standard, always reminding us that “everything has its place.”

Ana Maria was the eldest of five siblings, a role she carried with both authority and affection. She is survived by her sisters Marisa Abrigada (preceded in death by her husband, Mauricio Francisco Da Costa Abrigada) and Zani Dos Santos, and her brother Deodato Dos Santos (Angola). She now reunites in eternal rest with her brother Manuel Dos Santos (whose wife, Laurence, survives him) and her parents. As the matriarchal anchor of her family, she was both boss and safe harbor—respected for her wisdom, cherished for her presence.

Educated at Liceu Salvador Correia, Ana Maria obtained her high school diploma before pursuing her talents as both an artist and a culinary artisan. She poured creativity into her craft, whether through her art, her food, or the simple yet elegant way she presented herself. Ana Maria enjoyed the beauty of life—fashion, perfectly styled wigs, polished nails, and a joyful sense of self-expression that made her presence both radiant and memorable. She represented being authentically yourself—elegance in its truest form.

Above all else, Ana Maria was a woman of faith. A quiet soul, she did not speak often, but when she did, her words carried weight. She was an avid reader of the Bible, faithfully spending time in God’s Word each day. In May of 2003, she re-dedicated her life to Christ through baptism, a moment that reflected her deep devotion and renewed commitment to the Lord. Her spiritual discipline became her quiet space, where she attuned her heart to the Lord and found peace, strength, and joy in His presence.

Her greatest pride was her family. She was the devoted mother of NizaLideo, mother-in-law to Kara Holmes Huff, and the adoring grandmother of Brazille and Christian (children of Candace Hunter-Clark and NizaLideo), who brought light and laughter to her days. Her love extended beyond her immediate family, embracing nieces and nephews: Silvia, Cesar (Brittany), Suzana (Paul), Riana (Chauncy), Josette, Ahyssa (Mustafa), Shanna; and five great-nephews, and three great-nieces (with one expected soon), as well as countless relatives and friends across the United States and abroad.

To her family, Ana Maria was not just a woman—she was a sacred presence. A place of order, comfort, and wisdom. She embodied both discipline and joy, blending strength with tenderness, faith with beauty. She was not a woman of many words, but when she spoke, we listened. She was our matriarch, our standard, our joy.

Ana Maria’s legacy is one of faithfulness, resilience, creativity, and devotion. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will continue to guide, inspire, and live on in the lives of those she loved.

She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.

A memorial service will be held at Funeraria del Angel Greer-Wilson Chapel, located at 5921 West Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85033, US. The service is scheduled for September 20, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.