Obituary of John M. Pires

John M. Pires of Carmel, NY — formerly of Yonkers, NY, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2024 surrounded by his family. John was born on June 5, 1943 in Sabugal, Portugal to the late Francisco and Gloria Melro Pires. He was married for 52 years to the love of his life, his devoted wife, Anna Marie (De Sousa) Pires. He is survived by his loving family, including his children, Elizabeth (Alberto) Santarelli of Westport, CT and Jennifer (Joseph) Occhicone of Carmel, NY, cherished granddaughter, Olivia Occhicone, Mother-in-law Rosa DeSousa, brothers Manuel (Manny) of Stratford, CT and A. Frank of Glen Ellen, IL as well as many nieces and nephews in CT, IL and Washington. John was pre-deceased by his sister Mary Beatriz (Antonio "Tony") Goncalves of Darien, CT. He came to the US as a young child and later served his country in the branch of the Army from January 1969 to September 1971 where he was stationed in Vietnam as a staff Sargent for a period of 20 months. After his return, John completed his studies, graduating from Pace University in 1973. In his professional life, prior to retiring in 2005, he worked for the City of Yonkers as an accountant. Among his many proud accomplishments, John was instrumental, with the cooperation of the NY Archdiocese, in building and opening a church where the Portuguese community in Yonkers could practice their faith and pledge devotion to its patron, Our Lady of Fatima. Within the community, he was the leader of the youth (folklore) group for many years, enjoyed volunteering where needed, and was a proud member of the Portuguese American Community Center in Yonkers for the past 52 years. John loved to read and had a particular love for music— especially "the Fado" which he would often have playing in the background in the house. Our family is grateful for all the cherished memories, love and support he gave each of us through the years. Family was at the core of his heart and soul. Reposing will be at Sinatra Funeral Home, Yonkers, NY on Thursday, May 9 from 3-7 PM. Funeral mass will be at Our Lady of Fatima Portuguese Church in Yonkers on Friday, May 10 at 11 AM with interment to follow at Mt. Hope cemetery in Hastings-on-Hudson. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Our Lady of Fatima Portuguese Church, 355 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10705.