The family of Brazilian football icon Pele has announced the passing of his mother, Celeste Arantes, at the remarkable age of 101.
Arantes outlived her famous son by 18 months.
Born in 1923, Celeste Arantes was just 17 when she gave birth to Edson Arantes do Nascimento, later known as Pele, on October 23, 1940. She was a devoted mother and homemaker, dedicating her life to raising her children, including Pele’s younger brother, Jair, who passed away in 2020.
Pele’s eldest son, Edinho, paid tribute to his grandmother on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt message and a photo of them embracing. “Rest in peace, grandma,” he wrote, honoring the matriarch of the family.
According to local media reports, Celeste Arantes had been hospitalized for eight days before her passing on Friday. The cause of death was not disclosed. At the time of Pele’s death in 2022, family members revealed that Arantes was struggling with cognitive difficulties and was unaware of her son’s passing.
Pele had often expressed his love and gratitude for his mother, crediting her with teaching him valuable life lessons. On her 100th birthday, he wrote on Instagram, “From a young age, she taught me the value of love and peace.” He shared three photos of them together, showcasing their special bond at different stages of their lives.
Celeste Arantes’ passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched. Her dedication to her children and her love for her family serve as an inspiration to many, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.