Maria Toste Obituary

Maria Rafaela Toste, of Raynham, passed away on July 4, 2024. She was 83. Maria, affectionately known as Rafaela, grew up on the island of Terceira, Azores, coming to the United States in 1972. She lived in Bridgewater for many years before moving to Raynham to be with family. In the early years she worked for Lucy Shoes, The Foxboro Company and owned a Dunkin Donuts franchise with her husband. As a proud homemaker and matriarch, Rafaela could often be found cooking, crocheting, and playing cards with her grandchildren. Her family also fondly remembers many camping trips. Rafaela was a quiet woman with a great sense of humor. She will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Beloved wife of the late Francisco Toste. Devoted mother of Lidia Smith of Attleboro, Francisco "Frank" Toste and his wife Karen of Raynham, Tommy Toste and his wife Phyllis of Piscataway, NJ, and Nancy Brown and her husband Eric of Roslindale. Cherished Avó of Olivia, Catherine and her fiancé Anthony, Nathaniel, Isabel, Julianne, Lucas, Caitlin, Tommy James, Wesley, Zachary, and Emilia. Loving sister of Maria de Fatima Pereira of Terceira. Also survived by nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend the visiting hours on Sunday 2-6 PM at Chapman Funerals and Cremations, 98 Bedford Street, Bridgewater.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday at 10 AM at St. Ann Church in Raynham. Burial will follow in Pleasant Street Cemetery in Raynham.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Rafaela may be made to Autumn Hospice via Dream Foundation, 1528 Chapala Street, Suite 304, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.