Helder Moura, 71, of Bradenton, FL, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2024.
Born in Santa Maria, Azores, on September 12, 1952, Helder emigrated to the United States in 1968, carrying a deep love for his heritage and an unyielding drive to better himself.
Like many immigrants, Helder embraced the pursuit of the American dream. At 15, he began working on the factory line at Frye Boots and, despite language barriers, quickly rose to a valued inspector role at HHScott. Determined to succeed, he became proficient in English and earned an Engineering degree from Boston University.
Corporate America soon recognized Helder's talents, leading to increasing authority at Digital Equipment Corporation, Hewlett-Packard, Excell Switching, and Lucent Technologies. A lifelong learner, he later earned a Master's degree in Business Administration, culminating in his role as Director of Quality at NetScout.
Helder was a mentor to many, especially his younger cousins, and consistently gave back to those around him.
He is survived by the love of his life, his devoted wife Isabel (Neves), his beloved daughter Sonia, and his siblings Alvaro Moura (Cathy) and Neli Leandres (Gerry) of (Hudson, MA) and Elia Gilles (Mike) of Boston, MA), as well as nieces and nephews Ryan Gilles (Mary), Nicole Gilles, Kyle Leandres, Rachel Hamed, and Jessica Jardine (Klavey). Newest member of Helder's family is his six-month-old grandnephew Michael Patrick Gilles.
Helder's love of soccer was unparalleled, particularly for Sporting his favorite Portuguese team. He played in an over-40 soccer league, coached and mentored youth in Holliston, and later became a high school referee as a member of the Eastern MA Soccer Officials Association. On the field, he spoke with his feet but played with his heart.
Football was another of Helder's passions, and he spent many happy weekends cheering on the Gamecocks, Vols, and Patriots.
He cherished good conversations, Portuguese cuisine, wine, and cigars. When he wanted to escape, he fished; when he wanted to win, he played cards. His love was unconditional, and his family was his world-his purpose, his life.
A memorial service to honor Helder's life will be held at St. Michael's Cemetery, 278 Cox St., Hudson, MA, on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to celebrate a life well-lived and a spirit deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Holliston Pantry Shelf in Helder's name.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
