Maria Norma (Oliveira) Meneses, 89, of Lowell, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 22, 2025, with her loving family by her side. She was the beloved wife of the late Desidero N. Meneses, who passed away in 2011, just before they would have celebrated 55 years of marriage.
Born on September 27, 1935, in Terceira, Azores, she was the daughter of the late Antonio C. Oliveira and the late Inocencia Mendonça. She was raised and educated in Terceira, where she met her husband and began her family. In December 1969, she and her family immigrated to the United States, settling in Lowell to build a new life together.
A devoted communicant of St. Anthony’s Church and a proud member of the Holy Trinity Society, Maria Norma's faith was at the center of her life. She was a warm and loving woman who welcomed everyone with open arms. Whether gathered around the table sharing a home-cooked meal or simply enjoying each other’s company, she found joy in being surrounded by family and friends. Her home was always a place of love, laughter, and togetherness. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Maria Norma is survived by her sons, Flavio Meneses and his wife, Luciana, of Brazil, and Jorge Meneses and his wife, Maya, of Tyngsboro; her cherished grandchildren, Brian Lima, Flavio Meneses, Josiana Meneses, Jessica Meneses, Geferson Meneses, Luis Meneses, Sophia Meneses, and Marcus Meneses; and her great-granddaughter, Brianna. She also leaves behind her sisters, Inocencia O. Cardoso and her husband, João, and Isilda Batista, all of Lowell, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her daughters, Fatima Lourdes Meneses and Filomena Lima; her brothers, Antonio M. Oliveira and Jorge Oliveira; and her sons-in-law, Jose Batista and Ivo Lima.
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, all are welcome to attend her calling hours from 9 until 11 a.m. at McDonough Funeral Home, 14 Highland Street, Lowell, 978-458-6816. Her Funeral Mass will be held at 12 Noon at St. Anthony’s Church, 893 Central Street, Lowell followed by procession to St. Joseph Cemetery in Chelmsford. Please find us on Facebook or visit www.McDonoughFuneralHome.com to leave the family a message of condolence at any time.