Maria Do Carmo Bernardo

Born in Algarvia St. Michael Azores, a daughter of the late Manuel and Maria (De Rescurreicao) Bernardo, she lived in St. Michael before coming to America in 1998.

Maria was a vivacious woman that at the age of 75 became a United States citizen. A “neat freak” by nature, she loved to cook and have parties with her family. Maria enjoyed being photographed and was in the habit of always looking ready for the next photo shoot – with her heels on, a big smile, and her pocketbook. In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening her vegetables and plants and crocheting and knitting.

She was a force of nature, a true spitfire with a passion for life that burned brightly. Her energy and determination was contagious, inspiring everyone around her.

She is survived by her children, Carla Soares and her husband Gilbert of Acushnet, Marta Saramago and her husband Carlos of FL and Portugal, Maria de Fatima Martins and her companion Vitor Palma of Azores, Maria Isabel Caetano of Azores, and Paulo Alexandre Caetano and his wife Susana of Azores; 18 granchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was the mother of the late Bernardino Pedro Bernardo Caetano and the mother-in-law of the late Conceicao Caetano and she was the last of nine siblings.

Her visitation will be Tuesday, August 12, 2025 4-7 p.m. in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford with a funeral service at 5:30 p.m. Burial will be private. For online tribute/directions: www.rock-funeralhome.com.