Maria Dias

Maria (Fernandes) Dias, 87, of New Bedford, passed away at Alden Court Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on July 4, 2025 surrounded by her family after a long, courageous battle with Dementia. Born in Cervos, Portugal, she was the daughter of the late Joaquim Dias and the late Delcina (Araujo) and loving wife to the late Manuel F Dias. 

Born into a humble and poor family in the north of Portugal, she gave up everything for those she loved. Every sacrifice she made was quiet, steady, and selfless—an act of pure love.

Her heart always remained connected to her family in Portugal. Her brother and sisters were deeply cherished, especially her niece Joana, the daughter of her younger sister who passed away far too soon.

Maria was a devoted Catholic who drew strength from her unwavering faith. Each day, she prayed with love and devotion to the Virgin Mary, especially to Our Lady of Fátima. She carried Our Lady in her heart—not just as a symbol of faith, but as a source of peace, comfort, and inspiration. The message of Fátima—of hope, prayer, and trust in God—was her guiding light.

She never sought recognition or praise. She lived simply, loved fiercely, and gave all she had from the depths of her heart. I remember a quiet moment when she said to me, “The people who want to see me will visit me while I’m alive.” And many did. Those she loved—and who truly loved her—visited her in the nursing home. That meant the world to her.

Maria is survived by her sons; Marco Dias and wife, Sandra, Mario Dias and wife, Ferran Piazza; sisters, Arminda Fernandes, Fernanda Oliveira, Ana Fidalgo; brother, Augusto Fernandes; grandchildren, Shawn Dias and Angela Dias.

In accordance with her wishes, her funeral service will be private, held at the Funeral Home—simple, quiet, and respectful, just as she wanted. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on a date to be announced at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church with burial to follow in Pine Grove Cemetery.

Today, we do not only mourn her passing—we honor her life. Her strength. Her tenderness. Her endless sacrifices. She was the foundation of our family—the one we leaned on, and the one we will carry in our hearts forever.