Edith Monteiro Veiga

Edith do Carmo Fontes Monteiro Veiga, better known as (mas konxedu pa) “Dona Julieta,” was born September 15, 1938 in Cova Figueira, Fogo, Cabo Verde. At 19, she married the late Antonio F. Veiga, and settled in Baluarte, Fogo where they were married for more than 25 years and raised a beautiful family. She passed away at home, surrounded by family, on Tuesday February 24, 2026.

She leaves a tremendous legacy as a beloved mother, stepmother, godmother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, sister, sister-in-law, “cumadre,” community member and friend to all.

Dona Julieta is to be remembered as a strong matriarch among a family too large to count. She was a woman of class, hospitality, tradition and faith. For a woman of her generation in Cabo Verde, she was well-educated, having completed “quarta class.” She could read, write, and run her own business.

As a working mother widowed young, she became an entrepreneur. She sold goods, baked and sold cakes, sweets and bread—like her famous “querdizer”—to support her family. She was well known in Fogo, Santiago and beyond; many families entrusted her with their own children.

In Sao Filipe (Bila) and in Praia, she welcomed dozens of children to her home who needed the opportunity to go to school, ensuring they were housed, fed and disciplined to study. With her rosary in hand, she lived with strong values, and unwavering faith in the idea that “Deus e grande” (God is big & powerful).

She overcame the loss of a young son, “Guigui,” the challenges of immigration, and even navigated politics—she took part in political campaigns and was often visited by dignitaries who knew of her reputation on the island.

In 1995, she moved to the US, making her home in Brockton. She helped raise her grandchildren, great-grands, and continued supporting others who all affectionately call her “Vovo” until today. With a big heart, she was also known for her sense of humor. She would be quick to tell you “Cala boca!” especially if you interrupted her watching her "Novelas" between 7–10 p.m. weeknights.

She loved to travel, visit loved ones, attend family parties and cultural/ church events like Festa S. Joao. She was a devoted member of St. Edith Stein, loved by the priests for whom she prayed and whom she considered friends. The daughter of the late Maria das Dores Fontes & Jose do Carmo Monteiro, she was the sister of Lino do Carmo Fontes Monteiro, Antonia Monteiro, and the late Aurelia (Inglesa) Monteiro Fontes, the late Antero Monteiro and Delfina de Andrade Gomes.

She leaves behind dozens of nieces and nephews. She leaves behind 9 living children: Alexandre Veiga of Fogo, Cabo Verde, Tadeo “Bobby” Veiga, Jose “Ze Antonio” Veiga, Any Veia, Manuel “Nholy/ Emanuel” Veiga, Antonio “Cristianinho” Veiga, Celeste “Leti” Veiga, Carlos “Calu” Veiga, and Luis “Lelau” Veiga, about 50 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; and many more who also consider her close family.

Her rich legacy will continue to live on through her family, and in all those who have been touched by her generosity, wisdom and kindness.