Maria Estrela Arruda

Born in St. Michael, Portugal, she was the daughter of the late Jose and Deolinda (Braga) Pereira. Prior to Maria’s retirement, she was employed as a stitcher at Cliftex and Riverside Manufacturing. She was a devout catholic and faithful communicant of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.

Maria was known by all who met her for her radiant smile, gentle spirit, and beautiful soul. She carried herself with warmth and grace, always ready to share a kind word or offer a helping hand. Even throughout her illness, Maria never let it define her. She remained strong, hopeful and positive, a true testament to her unwavering faith and resilient spirit. Her courage inspired those around her, and her light continued to shine brightly until the very end.

In addition to her loving husband Silvino, Maria is survived by her three devoted sons, Richard G. Arruda and his wife Kendall, and Gary G. Arruda, Eric G. Arruda all of New Bedford. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Shelby and Riley Arruda.

She is also survived by her siblings, Maria dos Anjos Mauricio and her husband Agostinho and Jose Braga Pereira and his wife Maria; as well as several brother in-laws, sister in-laws, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sisters, Lurdes DaCosta and Silvina B. Pereira.

Her funeral will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 9:00AM from the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, followed by her Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00AM in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 230 Bonney Street, New Bedford, MA. 02744. Burial will be at Pine Grove Cemetery. Her visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 5:00-8:00PM in the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA. 02745. For online tributes: www.rock-funeralhome.com

Maria’s legacy of love, kindness, quiet strength, and enduring positivity will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.