Dartmouth – Maria E. (Camara) Alves, age 93, of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Armando D. Alves.
Maria was born in Ribeira Grande, Sao Miguel, Azores to the late Tomas Manuel Camara and Maria de Lourdes (da Costa) Camara. She worked as a wire inspector for Columbia Electronics until her retirement.
Maria was a very active member in the community— for many years, she volunteered her time as a campaigner for the United Way. She held numerous positions on the board of directors for the Portuguese Continental Union Lodge #4. In 2010, she served as the president of Concelho da Ribeira Grande in New Bedford. She was a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.
Prior to her declining health, Maria enjoyed gardening, crocheting, cooking, and spending time with her best friend who was also her loving husband of 63 years. She was happiest when her home was filled with the love and laughter of her family and close friends. She was a proud grandmother who adored being in the presence of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her loving husband, Armando Alves; her 4 children, Avelino J. Alves and his wife Maria, Thomas M. Alves and his wife Valerie, Alice Freitas, Lourdes Silveira and her husband Carlos; 9 grandchildren, Shannon, Lauren, Ashley, Mallory, Nathan, Christina, Karina, Andrea, and Taylor; 2 great-grandchildren, Arianna and August; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her late siblings, Jacinto Camara, Maria Walsh and Jose Camara and by her late son-in-law, Jose H. Freitas.
The family would like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to Luisa Gomes, her loving caregiver for the past six years. In addition, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Southcoast Hospice Care for the compassion and support these past few months.
Maria’s visiting hours will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022 from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. at Perry Funeral Home. Her funeral will take place on Tuesday morning, beginning in the funeral home at 9:30 A.M. and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:30 A.M. Burial will immediately follow in St. John’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Maria’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the organization of your choice.
Arrangements are placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, Ma. 02740. Please see our website: www.perryfuneral.com for condolences.