Edalina Vargas

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Edaline B. Vargas, affectionately known as "Lina," on Sunday, September 1, 2024, in Santa Clara, California, at the age of 91. Lina was born in June 1933 in Ribeira do Cabo, Pico, Azores, Portugal, to her beloved parents, the late Jose and Maria Bettencourt. She was the cherished wife of Mateus R. Vargas, with whom she shared nearly 70 years of marriage. Together, they built a loving and devoted family in Santa Clara, California, after making the brave decision to leave their homeland during difficult times under a dictatorship and starting a new life in California

Lina was the proud and loving mother of her daughter, Ana Vargas-Smith, and son-in-law, Darry Smith. She was the second youngest of 5 siblings: Maria do Carmo, Maria, Manuel, Jose, and baby brother Daniel. Lina adored her brothers and sisters, extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends and neighbors—many of whom have already passed but remained close to her heart. A woman of intellect, deep faith, love of learning, and a curious nature, Lina found joy in many passions throughout her life. She had a profound love for reading, history, community, family, and religious art, and she cherished celebrating Portuguese traditions. Her love for flowers, especially roses, was evident in the beautiful flower garden that her beloved Mateus planted for her 50 years ago, a constant source of delight.

Lina was known for her exceptional cooking, especially her delicious Portuguese meals that brought her family together. Her devotion to her Catholic faith and Portuguese culture remained unwavering throughout her life. Lina and Mateus were active community members of the SES, St. Anthony, and Nossa Senhora de Fatima organizations, and they belonged to St. Clare's Parish where Ana went to elementary school. Lina often returned to Pico, Azores, with her family to spend summers reconnecting with extended family and friends, and cherishing her roots.

Resourceful, fearless and deeply spiritual, Lina was the heart of the home she and Mateus built in Santa Clara. Their home was filled with love, care, and dedication, a true reflection of their enduring partnership A beacon of love and kindness, Lina’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her unconditional love, especially for her daughter Ana, and her lifelong devotion to Mateus will be remembered and cherished always.

Though Lina’s passing marks the end of a beautiful love story, her bond with Mateus will continue in eternal rest and peace.

A visitation for Edalina will be held Sunday, September 15, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM with Rosary at 6:00 PM at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 North Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, September 16, 2024 at 12:30 PM at St. Clare Parish, 725 Washington St, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Interment to follow at 2:00 PM at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, 490 Lincoln St, Santa Clara, CA 95050.