João Manuel Da Cunha Alves

May 20, 1934 – July 10, 2025

João Manuel Da Cunha Alves, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, at 91 years old.

Born in Valença, Viana do Castelo, Portugal, on May 20, 1934, João was the cherished son of Manuel Ângelo Alves and Maria do Céu Pereira Da Cunha Alves. After proudly serving in the Portuguese army, João returned home and married his lifelong sweetheart and neighbor, Maria Virginia Gomes. Together, they shared 67 years of unwavering love, partnership, and laughter.

In 1966, João immigrated to the United States, settling in Union, New Jersey, and worked as a skilled construction mason with A.H. Ferber Construction Inc. for 30 years.

After retiring in 1998, João returned to Portugal, where he found deep joy in cultivating his gardens and making his own wine. These traditions weren’t just hobbies—they were reflections of his deep connection to the land, his heritage, and the people he loved.

To those who knew him, João was the life of the party. A gifted storyteller with a mischievous sense of humor, he could light up a room with his presence. His happiest moments were spent surrounded by family, especially his great-grandsons, with a sweet treat in hand and a smile on his face.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Maria Virginia; his daughter, Maria Aurelia Sousa and son-in-law Joe; his granddaughter Kristen Forlini and her husband Paul; and his great-grandsons, Joseph and John. His legacy lives on through the family he nurtured, the stories he told, and the love he so generously gave.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice in his name.

Services will be held at Higgins Home for Funerals in Watchung, New Jersey.

Visitation:

Tuesday, July 15th 

4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Higgins Funeral Home, Watchung, NJ

Funeral Mass:

Wednesday, July 16th at 11:00 AM

Our Lady of the Mount Church

Warren, NJ

Entombment: 

Holy Cross Cemetery

Basking Ridge, NJ