Emily Freitas

Emily Maria Freitas passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on Friday, May 19, 2023. She was 61 years old. Emily was born on September 26, 1961, in Rebeira Seca, Sao Jorge Azores to her parents, Henrique & Humberta Fontes. She moved to California in 1965 with her parents and sister. Together they lived in Merced and surrounding areas. In 1990, Emily moved to Hilmar where she would reside until her passing. In 1993, Emily’s daughter, Ashley Marie, was born. Emily loved her dearly. Emily’s first bout of cancer was in 2005, in which she battled breast cancer. She went into remission for the next 10 years. During this time, she met the love of her life, Joe Manuel Freitas in 2007. They lived a beautiful life together and were married on May 14, 2021 at the Chapel of the Bell in Las Vegas, NV. Emily worked as a supervisor at Rite Aid for 33 years. When she wasn’t working, she loved going camping with Joe and their friends. Her favorite places to visit were Monterey, CA and Casa de Fruta. Emily was very creative. She enjoyed crocheting, decorating for every holiday, and had many side projects she was always working on. She was a member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Hilmar, Our Lady of Miracles in Gustine, and Our Lady of Fatima in Turlock. In 2015, Emily’s cancer returned but this time in her lungs. She fought cancer once more, undergoing many chemo treatments. During this time, Emily remained resilient, a warrior, & an inspiration to everyone around her. She never gave up. She loved life and did her best to enjoy every minute of it. Emily was a loving and wonderful person. She touched the lives of many, leaving a permanent mark on their hearts. Her love for life and others will not be forgotten. She will be deeply missed by all. May she rest in heavenly peace. Emily was preceded death by her parents, Henrique & Humberta Fontes; her father-in-law, Jose Freitas; and brother-in-law, Manuel Freitas. She is survived by the love of her life, Joe Manuel Freitas; her sister, Mary Serafina Fontes; her daughter, Ashley Marie Picano; her son-in-law; her two grandsons; her stepdaughters, Christina & Marina Freitas; her mother-in-law, Maria F. Freitas; brother-in-law, Eddie Freitas, and many friends. A recitation of the rosary will be held on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at Turlock Funeral Home in Turlock. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Hilmar. Following the service, Emily will be laid to rest at Turlock Memorial Park.

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Emily Freitas

September 26, 1961 - May 19, 2023