Bernardino Goncalves De Barros, better known as Nanando, was born in Achada Fonseca, Fogo, Cabo Verde in 1957 to Tome and Natalia Barros. With a one-of-a-kind personality and boundless curiosity, Nanando went on to live a vibrant and deeply meaningful life—one that touched hearts across continents.

Nanando was passionate about many things, but especially gardening. Every one of his homes overflowed with greenery. If anyone had a question about their plants, Nanando was always ready to help—offering careful, step-by-step instructions, whether over the phone or right by your side. He shared not only his deep knowledge of botany, but also his joy for life through every seed, every leaf, and every blossom.

Nanando earned his bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Ph.D. in Germany where he published a dissertation—entirely in the German language—about agriculture in Cabo Verde. He then returned to Cabo Verde to put his studies into practice serving under the Ministry of Development and Agriculture “MDR”. Eventually, he moved to the United States, where he built a successful career dedicated to serving students in the Boston Public Schools.

Throughout his journey, Nanando was meticulous, thoughtful, and precise. Yet he always made time to savor life—whether that meant hosting loved ones at his Dorchester home, which he affectionately called Laranjeira after his mother’s hometown, or tending to his beloved birds in Praia and Fogo.

As we mourn our beloved Nanando, it is hard to imagine a world without his hugs, his laughter, or his light. But let us never forget his boundless energy and love for life. Let each of us commit to
living fully, joyfully, and generously in his honor.

In Lieu of flowers; associacao amigos da paroquia nossa senhora de Fatima Ponta Verde Fogo CV.

Visitation will be held at Saint Patrick Church, 400 Dudley Street, ROXBURY on Tuesday, July 8th from 5-9PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, July 9th at 10AM at the church. Interment at New Calvary Cemetery. Relatives and friends invited.