“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.” Antonio Afonso Ribas passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on October 2, 1931, in Padroso, Portugal, he was the beloved son of the late David and Maria Ribas. Antonio courageously immigrated to the United States with his wife and two young daughters, initially settling in Wilbraham before making a long-time home in Ludlow, Massachusetts. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Antonio was known for his incredible work ethic and love for his family. He worked for many years at Savage Arms in Westfield until his retirement, while also holding part-time jobs to provide for those he loved. He was the cherished husband of the late Ana (Branco) Ribas, who passed away in 2018. Antonio is survived by his loving daughters, Grace Genovevo and her husband Carlos, and Anna Maria Ribas-Dias and her husband Joe. He was a proud grandfather to Adriano, Jennifer and her husband Jason Frisk, Samantha, Joseph and his wife Fransesca Dias, and Michaela. He leaves behind his adored great-grandchildren: Emersyn, Scarlett, Joseph Jr. (JJ), Emmitt, Jordan, and Catherine. Antonio also leaves his sister-in-law Ana Branco, his Godchildren Raul Branco, Joe Branco, and Liz Goncalves, his niece Maria Moreno, his nephew Raul Barros, and many extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his siblings Antonio, Domingos (wife Albertina), and Delfim (wife Ida); his sisters-in-law Arminda Barros (husband Antonio) and Isabel Pires; his nephew David Ribas; his niece Virginia “Gina” Teixeira; and his brothers-in-law Jose Branco and Manuel Branco, who was also his best friend. A devout Catholic and faithful communicant of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Antonio’s faith was a guiding light in his life. He found joy in spending time with family and friends, working in his garden, making his own wine, and caring for his chickens and rabbits. His home was always open—filled with love, laughter, and hospitality. The Ribas family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Life Care Center of Wilbraham for their kindness and compassionate care. Calling Hours will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM at Ludlow Funeral Home, with a Liturgy of Christian Mass celebrated at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Ludlow, followed by burial in St. Aloysius Cemetery. Antonio will be remembered for his strength, warmth, and devotion to those he loved. He will be missed deeply and cherished forever.
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Previous Events
Visitation
10
May
432 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Funeral Liturgy
10
May
438 Winsor Street
Ludlow, MA 01056
Cemetery Details
Location
1273 Berkshire Avenue
Indian Orchard, Ma 01151
