Celeste Arantes, the mother of acclaimed Football GOAT, Pelé, died on Friday at age 101.
Arantes spent the past five years in a vegetative state.
Till her death, she was not informed about her famous son’s death in 2022.
The Pelé Foundation said on its social media channels that the mother of the only three-time World Cup-winning player was a role model.
“Today’s feelings are mixed. We deeply mourn the departure of ‘Celestinha,’ as her son affectionately called her.
“At the same time, we are eternally grateful for her existence,” the foundation said. “Dona Celeste is the queen mother and will forever be lovingly remembered in our hearts and memories.”
Santos, the club where Pelé played most of his career, said its fans were sorry for the death of “the mother of our eternal king.”
“She had 101 years of an inspiring life story. A Black woman who faced endless adversities in life for the good of her family,” the club added.
Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known worldwide as Pelé, was one of three children of Celeste Arantes.
Initially, she opposed his decision to pursue a career in professional football but gradually accepted it as his success grew.
Pelé passed away on December 29, 2022.
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