Jose Alves Ferreira

Life is not measured by the years we are given, but by the love we share, the lives we forever touch, and the legacy we leave behind. An amazing life lives on through memories and stories long after we have returned to our eternal home.

Jose Alves Ferreira lived a life deeply rooted in devotion, humility, and grace. At 94 years old, he was called home on December 17, 2025, in Bolivia, North Carolina, after a life marked by steadfast faith, humble perseverance, and deep trust in God.

A beloved son of the late Jose Faustino Alves and Ermelinda Da Silva Ferreira, Jose was the eldest of three children. He was predeceased by his siblings, Inácio Ferreira Alves and Emerlinda Faria, whose memory he carried with him and missed every day.

Jose began working after completing the sixth grade, learning early the values of responsibility and sacrifice. His journey carried him across the seas, sailing around Africa while working as a bartender aboard a ship, before his path led him and his family to the United States.

He shared a devoted and loving marriage with his beloved wife, Maria Adelia, who preceded him in death. Together, they were blessed with their cherished daughter, Celia Maria. Upon moving to the United States, Celia married Carlos Lourenco, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Cristina and Sara. He held a deep and unwavering love for his granddaughters, and they loved him with a devotion unlike any other, a bond that will endure until the end of time. His daughter Celia Maria, whose unwavering love, care, and advocacy remained with him until his final breath, embodied the incomparable love of a daughter who stood faithfully by his side.

A pious and steadfast man, Jose lived his life guided by an unwavering faith in God. He was deeply devoted to the Catholic Church and to the community he so dearly cherished in Salir do Porto, Portugal. He faithfully served the Church as treasurer, cantor, and lector during Mass. As a Eucharistic minister, he reverently brought the Body of Christ to the homebound, offering comfort, faith, and compassion. He was very involved in the life of the community, giving his time and service with humility and love. He was a man of refinement and dignity, respected by all who knew him. Ever curious and sharp-minded, he embraced learning throughout his life, even mastering the use of an iPad well into his nineties.

As he is prepared to return home to Salir do Porto, Portugal, Jose will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, entering his eternal rest in the land he held dear. He leaves behind his beloved daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughters, as well as a loving extended family of nephews, nieces, grandnephews, and grandnieces, along with many dear friends who will carry forward his legacy.

His favorite song, one that now feels like a sacred call guiding him home, was:“Deixa tudo e responde — o Mestre está-te a chamar.”

With hearts full of gratitude and love, we commend Jose Alves Ferreira to his eternal rest, trusting that he has answered that call and is now at peace.

Online condolences may be made at www.shallottefunerals.com

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel