Maria Ester Raquel

Ester was born in Nelas, Portugal, a beautiful village in Northern Portugal, on May 17, 1925. At a very early age while attending church she developed a lifelong devotion to Jesus and Mother Mary that remained a priority in her life until her dying day.

Ester was an exceptionally hard worker, always happy, and started her day with prayers and a big smile. She was modest, humble, unselfish, and gracious throughout her life. Alongside prayer, singing was one of her greatest joys. She enjoyed music throughout her lifetime, all the way through her final days. She even sang her last song from her hospital bed the day after surgery while her children smiled as they listened.

Ester was married to João da Raquel for 61 years until his death in 2017. Before coming to the United States in 1973, Ester owned and operated a grocery store in Portugal while her husband João was establishing himself in the United States. Their attitude in moving to the states was that if you are going to work hard and long hours, it might as well be in a country with many opportunities and much better pay. After living and working in the States for 12 years, both Ester and João retired in 1985 and returned to Portugal, feeling more at home there after successfully completing their life goals for themselves and their family.

Ester is lovingly remembered by her son João (Laurinda), daughter Susana (William), grandsons Daniel and David (Lindsey), and great grandchildren Fiona, Orion, and Rory.

We will all miss her dearly here, but we take comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain, and her spiritual goal of being with the Lord has been met. She has undoubtedly added her beautiful voice to the angels' choir.

A funeral mass will be held on Monday October 26, 2026 at St. Leo Catholic Church 28290 Beaumont Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134.