João Braga, husband of the late Leonilde Braga, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 27, 2025, at the age of 89. João was born in Capelas, São Miguel, Açores and was the son of the late Jose and Ermelinda (Cabral) Braga. João came to the United States in 1974 with his wife and children to begin a new life; he was brave, driven, and strong.

Prior to coming to the states, Joao was sought out for his impressive skill set repairing high end yachts. João was so precise in his craft, owners found it nearly impossible to detect the original damage; he was an exceptionally gifted carpenter, working on projects in his tool room and around his home, you could call on him to lend a hand and he was always eager to help.

In addition to carpentry, João had a deep love for fishing, which he enjoyed alongside his soulmate of 54 years, Leonilde; João would make his own sinkers, intricately line his poles, and had just the right amount of patience to be a great fisherman. João was not only an artisan, but a beautiful singer, always whistling and humming, lending his voice to his church choir for many years. João loved his family deeply, bringing humor and happiness to them all, but above all, he loved God, and had devoted faith.

João will be greatly missed by so many people, including his three children, Marcia Braga, Carlos Braga (wife, Grace), and Ana Braga. And his grandchildren, Corey Braga, Brandon Braga, Sarah Braga, Celina Braga, Alec Santos, and Shauna Ferry (husband, Andrew), and great-granddaughter Maia Ferry, who was his "olhos de bala." João is survived by three sisters: Cremilde Carvalho, Ines Costa, and Angelina Almeida. João was preceded in death by his brothers, Manuel, Alfredo, and Jose Braga. Many nieces, nephews and friends will also miss the joy he brought into their lives.

"We are remembered not only for what we built, but for the love we wove into it"

His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday, September 8th, in St Anthony of Padua Church followed by his committal at Notre Dame Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory directly to NBIA Disorders Association, a cause that was dear to his heart in hopes for a cure for his grandson. You may donate at:  NBIA Disorders Association, 15055 Fairfield Meadows Dr STE 130-100, Cypress, TX 77433.

Family members are always grateful for relatives and friends wishing to make in-person expressions of kindness and support. If you were unable to do so, because of health concerns or any other reason, all are urged to express their sympathy online or by mail. To ensure that said condolences and/or sympathy cards reach the family, please always make sure that submissions online are made directly through the funeral home's website (www.silvafaria.com) and not through a third party. Thank you!