It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Léa Gomes Marques, who left us peacefully on July 9, 2026, at the age of 66. Born on April 26, 1960, in Recife, Brazil, Lea was a beacon of joy and warmth in the lives of everyone who knew her.

Lea will be lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Manuel Marques, as well as her two nieces who she raised as daughters; Karla Cristina Santana da Rocha Silva and Rhebeka Brandyne de Santana; brothers, Esdras Gomes de Santana, Isaac Gomes de Santana; niece Estela Harney-Goncalo (Gabriel); nephews Fábio Santana (Solange), Bruno Benedict Santana Rocha; step children, Ann Marques (Danny), Kristen Lavallee (Brian); step grandchildren, Hannah, Emma (Irad), Malachi, Brittany (Kyle), Callan; step great grandchildren, Daniel, Noah, Kinsley and other loving family members and friends who cherished her infectious smile and vibrant spirit. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joao Ferreia de Santana and Brandina Gomes de Santana; Sisters, Raquel Gomes de Santana, Joquibede Gomes de Santana, Lidia Gomes de Santana and Ester Gomes Oliveira de Santana; two brothers, Nehemias Gomes de Santana and Isreal Gomes de Santana.

Having settled in Middletown, Rhode Island, Lea created a warm and inviting home where she nurtured her passions for crafts and plants. Her love for nature and animals knew no bounds, and she could often be found tending to her beautiful garden or sharing moments of happiness with her beloved dog, Sonny.

As we gather to celebrate her life, we invite you to join us for calling hours on July 17, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. Following the visitation, a service to honor Lea will begin at 1:00 PM in the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. Columba Catholic Cemetery, 465 Brown's Ln., Middletown.