Felicidade B. Leandres

Felicidade B. Leandres, née Chaves, was born on March 6, 1926, in Santa Maria, the Azores of Portugal—a place that forever shaped the spirit of kindness and resilience that guided her through her remarkable hundred years of life. On August 8, 2026, Felicidade passed peacefully at home, embraced by her loved ones who cherished her strength and love until her final moments.

Felicidade’s journey began as the daughter of Antonio Chaves and Maria A. (Borges) Chaves. From her earliest days in Santa Maria, she was part of a loving and vibrant family, surrounded by siblings who would remain close in heart throughout life. Though her path led her far from her birthplace, Felicidade always carried the warmth, generosity, and enduring traditions of the Azores wherever she went.

She built a devoted partnership with her late husband of 74 1/2 years, Luis P. Leandres who passed in 2024. Following immigrating along with Luis and her son Gerry to the United States, they created a family grounded in devotion and gratitude. Felicidade was predeceased by loving siblings—her brother Jose B. Chaves, and sisters Maria do Carmo Chaves, Filomenia Loura, Rosa B. Chaves, and Lucinda Melo—but their memories lived on in her cherished stories and caring spirit.

In her long life, Felicidade was the heart of her family. She is survived by her son, J. Gerry Leandres of Hudson, MA, whose deep admiration for his mother was evident in every moment they shared. Her legacy continues in her beloved grandson, Kyle Pavel Leandres of Hudson, MA, whose life was touched daily by her wisdom and unwavering love. Emily, loving wife of Kyle, also survives Felicidade, grateful for the warmth she brought to the family. Felicidade’s siblings Helena Braga of Taunton, MA and Zenalia Bairos of Marlborough, MA survive her as well, holding dear their lifelong bond. Felicidade was also preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Neli Leandres, a sorrowful loss she carried with quiet grace.

Family led Felicidade’s every decision and was the cornerstone of her happiness. She wove together generations, passing down recipes, traditions, and enduring values. She had a gift for making every gathering feel like home, infusing every moment with laughter and a sense of belonging. Her stories—touching on childhood adventures in the Azores, lessons learned, and joys experienced—will continue to resonate with those who had the privilege of hearing them.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, 50 Central Street, Hudson, Massachusetts. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at Saint Michael's Parish, 21 Manning Street, Hudson, at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 14, 2026; Procession will follow for burial in Saint Michael Cemetery, 278 Cox Street, Hudson, MA.

As we bid farewell to Felicidade B. Leandres, we celebrate a life lived with courage, unconditional love, and quiet dignity. Though her absence leaves a void, her memory will blossom in the hearts of all who knew her—a testament to a century of compassion, dedication, and hope that endures through her family and friends.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations in memory of Felicidade may be made to: Saint Francis House, P.O. Box 120499, Essex Station, Boston, MA 02112.