Arlete Lavado de Sousa, 70, of St. Petersburg, FL, and formerly of Waterbury, CT, was pronounced deceased on June 13, 2022. She was born in Mira de Aire, Portugal on February 23, 1952, the daughter of the late Americo and Maria Lavado.

Arlete came to America in 1960, when she was 8 years old. Eventually, she spent her life working as a certified hairdresser, as well as a professional quality inspector in the manufacturing industry. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, warm weather, the beach, fashion, dancing, arts and crafts, time with family/friends, helping others, and every minute talking or being with her grandchildren. She spent her downtime praying; she loved the Blessed Mother and Sacred Heart of Jesus. She always thought of others first, was dedicated to her family, and was unconditionally caring and loving. She strived to be the best person she could be through her efforts and small acts. Her smile was contagious, her kindness was always felt, her sweetness was adored, and her words touched lives.

Arlete will be deeply missed by her daughters Paula Esposito de Sousa, of Florida, and Teresa deSousa Cull, of Connecticut. She also leaves behind many other family members which include her husband, Joaquim G. de Sousa, who lives in Portugal; son-in-law Brian Cull; grandchildren Kylie and Elijah Cull; sister and brother-in-law Julia and Antonio Coelho; niece and nephew Romana (Ralph) Anderson and Tony (Michelle) Coelho; and numerous extended family members.

All are welcome to attend the Florida and/or Connecticut Funeral Masses to honor Arlete’s beautiful soul.

The first Funeral Mass: Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at 11:00 AM, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church, 5030 Mariner Blvd, Spring Hill, Florida.

The second Funeral Mass: Saturday, August 13, 2022, at 10:00 AM, Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 74 West Main St., Waterbury, Connecticut.