Doreen Fortes

Doreen “YaYa” (Santos) Fortes, 69, of Providence passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. She was the wife of Joseph Fortes, Sr.

Born in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Virginia (Tavares) Santos.

Doreen was a loving wife, devoted mother, proud grandmother, and cherished friend. She was known for her quick wit, sense of humor, and strong personality. Doreen was never afraid to speak her mind and was a woman who didn’t take any nonsense. She had a strong heart and an even stronger spirit.

Doreen will be deeply missed, but her love, strength, humor, and spirit will continue to live on through everyone who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

She was the mother of Joseph Fortes, Jr. and Brittani D. Fortes and grandmother of Dalayisha Moore and Jaliyah Fortes. She was also the sister of Frank “Chico” Santos, Jr. and his wife Wilmette, Lysa Davis and her husband Ronald and the late Diane Santos and Debra A. Santos Barnes.

Visitation will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 9:00 to 10:00 AM in the PONTARELLI-MARINO FUNERAL HOME, 971 Branch Avenue, Providence followed by a service in the funeral home at 10:00 AM. Burial to follow in R.I. Veteran Cemetery, Exeter. Family and friends are invited to join us for a repass following the burial at the Providence Fire Fighters Hall, 92 Printery Street, Providence, RI 02904.

For online tributes and condolences, visit www.pontarellimarinofunerals.com.