Maria da Conceicao Rodrigues passed away peacefully at Newport Hospital on November 22, 2024, with her beloved daughter at her side. She was 96 years old.

Maria was born in Capelas, Sao Miguel, Acores to Maria Dos Anjos Viera and Joao da Camara Melo. She has lived in the United States for over 60 years, making her home in Bristol. Maria was a housewife and mother, but also worked at American Tourister in Warren for over 20 years until her retirement.

Maria was happily married to her husband, Anthony Rodrigues, until his death in 1993. She is survived by her loving and devoted daughter and best friend, Patricia Rodrigues, as well as nieces and nephews. Maria is the last of her generation and was predeceased by her two sisters, Ilda Viera and Albertina DaSilva, her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, as well as 2 nephews.

Maria was an inspiration - at age 96 she rebounded from a hip fracture to resume independent function. She loved to follow world events on the news daily and kept up with her favorite team, Benfica. Above all she loved her family, her home, and her flowers. She loved to travel, loved shopping, and collecting special items for her home. She loved decorating, especially at Christmas. She was fastidious and kept herself, her home, and her garden immaculate.

Maria was deeply devoted to her faith. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Church and maintained ties to Sto. Cristo Church in Sao Miguel. She was generous to many charities, especially missionaries and those who supported the hungry.

Maria' s daughter, Patricia, would like to thank family, friends, and neighbors for all their support. Special thanks to Newport Hospital ER and ICU staff, and Dr. Ravi, all of whom went above and beyond to care for Maria and support her daughter with much compassion.

Her funeral services will be held on Monday, December 2, 10 – 10:30 AM from the George C. Lima Funeral Home, 367 High Street, with a Mass of Christian Burial, 11 AM at St. Elizabeth’s Church, 577 Wood Street. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: St Elizabeth’s Church Food Pantry, 577 Wood Street, Bristol, RI 02809.