We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend Diácono Manoel Basílio de Sousa on August 18, 2023.

He was an outstanding supporter of the Brazilian community in Massachusetts, especially in the MetroWest area. MAPS recognized his dedication by awarding him the MAPS 2006 Manuel N. Coutinho Outstanding Volunteer Award.

He founded the Centro Comunitário Bom Samaritano in Framingham, the first Brazilian community center in the state, and was a passionate journalist, radio personality, and community activist.

He was also the father of our dear friend Margareth Shepard, MAPS Person of the Year 2019, to whom we extend our deepest condolences, along with all his family and loved ones. May he Rest in Peace.