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Myrtle Beach......Jose Rodrigues Goncalves, age 84, passed away Friday, June 13, 2025. Mr. Goncalves was born in Celorico da Beira, Portugal, on September 13, 1940. He loved the sport of soccer. In his early years, he played and coached soccer teams. He was a Portuguese military soldier for many years. He was stationed in Angola, Africa, where he met his wife, Maria Manuela Rufino. They married and owned a storefront bakery. Their only daughter, Carla Maria Rufino Goncalves, was born in Angola, Africa. The family fled from Africa to Portugal because of the uprising in the country. When the family arrived in Portugal, Jose continued his love of baking at a bakery distant from his wife and daughter. After five years of living in Portugal, the family had the opportunity to immigrate to the United States. Upon arriving in America, he settled his family in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he spent 25 years working for the Carol Cable Wire Company before retiring. After his retirement, Jose and Maria moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, due to the warmer climate. Jose loved going to the beach and long road trips. He spent many years caring for his family. During his free time, he was an avid fan of the Portuguese "Benfica" soccer team. He spent the Fall and Winter seasons watching the Portuguese soccer leagues on television. He could tell you any statistics about the players in the league. His favorite color was red because of this soccer team. Jose helped his family and friends when he was able to lend a hand. He was a loving husband, father, uncle, and godfather to his family members. Jose's love, wisdom, and companionship will be missed by all who knew him. Surviving are: his wife, Maria Manuela Rufino Goncalves of Myrtle Beach; one daughter, Carla Goncalves of Myrtle Beach; three brothers, Franclim Goncalves of Hartford, Connecticut, Julio Goncalves of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and Manuel Goncalves of Portugal; and two sisters, Maria Louisa Goncalves Coelho of North Providence, Rhode Island and Leopoldina Goncalves Veira of Portugal. A memorial service will be held at Goldfinch Funeral Home on 11528 Frontage Road, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576. The service will be from 5:00-7:00 PM on Saturday, June 28, 2025. Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

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Jose Rodrigues Goncalves

September 13, 1940 - June 13, 2025