Edna Mae Freitas, a lifelong resident of the Ripon and Manteca area, passed away on May 13, 2026, in Manteca, California, at the age of 96. Born on March 27, 1930 to Manuel and Sophia Vieira,
Edna lived a beautiful life centered around faith, family, tradition, and love. In passing, she was reunited with her beloved husband, Albert Freitas, with whom she shared an extraordinary 72 years of marriage. She was preceded in death by her four brothers, Ernie, Richard, Will, and Ray, as well as her daughter, Diane Nicolini, and two grandsons.
She is survived by her son, Don Freitas (Marie); daughter, Denise Silva (Joe); son-in-law, Mike Nicolini; eight adored grandchildren: Don Freitas Jr. (Nora), Kristin Miller (Justin), Jaclyn Camara Hoobler, Jeff Camara (Larisa), Joe Silva Jr. (Carrie), Stefani Elwood (Brandon), Nina Silva, and Valerie Cuellar (Mike); and 12 great-grandchildren.
Edna was a faithful member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church and was actively involved in the Portuguese community through SPRSI, Cabrillo, and FESM, where she loved watching the auctions. Her heritage and faith were an important part of her life, and she treasured the friendships and traditions that came with them. Before retiring, Edna worked as a receptionist for Dr. Richard Yee and Dr. Randall Yee. One of her special gifts was helping Portuguese-speaking patients feel comfortable, often serving as a translator between English and Portuguese for those in need.
Edna had a vibrant spirit and truly loved life. She absolutely loved dancing, from Portuguese festas to square dancing with her beloved Albert. In true Edna fashion, she even made her own square-dancing outfits. She also enjoyed playing cards, gardening, and camping. Edna was a devoted homemaker, as well as a talented cook and baker. Her rice pudding and unforgettable lemon meringue pie became favorites among family and friends. She took great pride in caring for her home and family. Above all else, family was always her number one priority. Her greatest love was her husband, Albert. Their love story was one of remarkable devotion, partnership, and unconditional love. After his passing, she missed him deeply, carrying that love in her heart every day.
P.L. Fry and Son is honored to be serving the Freitas family. A visitation will be on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. followed by a Rosary/Vigil at 7:00 p.m. held at P.L. Fry and Son Chapel, 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca, Ca. A Mass will be on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. held at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, 505 E. North St. Manteca, Ca. She will be laid to rest with her beloved husband at St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Escalon, Ca.
For direct condolences to the family or to watch the Rosary/Vigil live visit www.plfryandson.com
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Saturday, May 16, 2026
