It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Elisabete De Jesus, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy of love, hard work, and resilience.
Elisabete, also known as Bete or Betty, was a force of nature. A feisty, fierce, and self-advocating Portuguese immigrant, she dedicated her life to caring for her family and building a home filled with love. Born in the small northern village of Ervedosa, Portugal, Elisabete was raised in a large, loving family. At a tender young age and out of financially necessity, she left her home to live and work with her uncle, the parish priest of Antas de Penedono. Elisabete learned the skills of homemaking and service and she eventually met her husband Aristides, a charming, handsome, adventurous young man. Their love blossomed through letters and endured during Aristides’ military service, leading to their marriage and a new life in Lisbon. There, Elisabete set up their home while caring for Aristides as he worked on the city’s iconic double-decker buses. Their love was the foundation of a family that would grow to include their daughters, Suzy, and Paula, whom Elisabete adored and with time, their son-in-law Angelo, and his beautiful family.
In the late 1960s, seeking greater opportunity, the De Jesus family emigrated to Canada, arriving in Toronto during the Salazar regime. There, Elisabete embraced her new life with the same determination and resourcefulness that had defined her since childhood. She worked tirelessly as an independent housekeeper, and through hard work and the support of her Portuguese community, found long-term employment on the prestigious Bridal Path. Elisabete took much pride in her work and as a family we referred to this chapter of her life as her “claim to fame”—after all, she worked for over 25 years with Canadian rock royalty! Those of you who knew Elisabete know who we are talking about. 😊
Throughout her life, Elisabete remained deeply connected to her roots. She cherished her many visits to Portugal, where she spent time with her siblings Arminda, Clementina, Antonio, Jose Julio, Veriato and their beautiful families. Then there were the Portugal and Canada visits with Ilda and family, and an extra special trip to see her dearly departed sister Eva and daughter in Brasil. There were many family trips to the United States to be with her dearly departed Antonio, loving sister-in-law Bernardina and their beautiful children Vera and Cecilio and in time with their amazing children Nico, Armando and Rosie and dearly departed Antonio. Elisabete loved her trips to Florida, where she and Aristides spent many winters enjoying the beach and creating lasting memories with their grandchildren. She also treasured family vacations, whether in B.C., Ocean City, or across from East to West across the Trans-Canada Highway. And then there were the cruises – to Alaska and Mediterranean – wow what adventures!
And how about the amazing network of family and friends in Canada – such deep roots of connection, support, and pride in being Portuguese Canadian. Tia Maria and Tio Ze, cousins Manuel/Emilia and family, cousins Antonio/Virginia and family, the Madeira, Mendes, Martins, Branco, Santos and so many more. Then of course with Angelo, came the Italian side of the family and oh the love and good times we had! So much support and connection!
Elisabete’s greatest joy was always her family. She was fiercely proud of her daughters and loved nothing more than spending time with her grandchildren Sarah, Jonathan, and Catherine. After the passing of Aristides, Elisabete found a new sense of independence, continuing to enjoy her favorite activities like knitting, shopping, taking care of her plants and flower garden and spending time with friends and family. Even in her later years, she remained a constant source of energy, support, and love.
Elisabete’s legacy is one of perseverance, hard work, and unwavering love. She showed us how to love fiercely and live with resilience. Her strength, passion, and determination will live on through her children and grandchildren, who are a testament to the love and care she poured into them every day.
Though she may no longer be with us, Elisabete’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in peace, knowing that her love, strength, and legacy will continue to guide us.
We love you, Elisabete.
Friends may call at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., at Windermere, east of the Jane subway, on Monday, January 27th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 3055 Bloor St. W., Etobicoke, on Tuesday, January 28th at at 12 p.m. Entombment Park Lawn Mausoleum.
In Lieu of flowers, please consider a small donation to: The Alzheimer Society and www.alzheimer.ca The Humber River Hospital https://hrrhf.akaraisin.com/ui/donate/donations/start
Thank you to all, too many to mention, who supported Elisabete and our family with all your kindness and love! We treasure you!!
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Turner & Porter - Yorke Chapel
2357 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M6S 1P4
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