Senna Mary was born in Harwich to Erundina Leite and Augustus Rose on March 24, 1941 and grew up in the villages of Harwich. Senna attended Harwich schools and dedicated her life to raising three amazing children and the enrichment and betterment of her town. She began her employment with the Town of Harwich at Town Hall in 1998, moving to the Community Center in 1999, welcoming children and adults at her position as receptionist for many years, often referred to as the “Unofficial Mayor of Harwich”. She was a founding member of the Harwich Housing Authority, Trustee of Brooks Free Library, and a long-time member of the Harwich Democratic Committee. Senna additionally participated and actively supported the Cape Verdean community in Harwich as a founding member of the Cape Verdean Multicultural Women’s Auxiliary. In 2001, Senna was honored by the Massachusetts House of Representatives with a Legislative Day Award which read, “In recognition of your many contributions which have made our society a better place to live, your talent, dedication, civic commitment, have been an exemplary role model to the Portuguese American Community.” In 2014, she was honored with the Unsung Hero Award from the NAACP in recognition of her community service and activism.
She leaves her loving memories to be cherished by her three wonderful children, Shawn, Steven and Emma Fernandez, her daughter-in-law, Antonella Fernandez and her grandchildren Daniel Fortson, Daniella DeLorenze, Gabriella DeLorenze, and Alexandra DeLorenze. She is also survived by her sister Lillian Fernandes, her brother Augustus Rose and many nieces and nephews that she loved so well.
Due to Covid, a Catholic Mass and burial will be held privately for Senna. We realize that she touched many lives and that many want to pay their respects. A Celebration of Life is planned to joyfully remember her at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome a donation to one of Senna’s favorite nonprofits, The Family Pantry, Harwich Fire and Police, or any local housing nonprofit.
For online condolences, please visit www.doanebealamesharwich.com .
