Maria was born on April 14, 1935, in Faial, Azores Islands, the eldest of seven children to Adelaide and Porfirio Correia Garcia. On March 25, 1967, she embarked on a new chapter of her life by immigrating to the United States with husband Joe, and five children, leaving behind their farming roots in search of new opportunities. Shortly after arriving, Maria expanded her family with two more children. The family initially settled in Tulare, moving to Fresno in 1970 where Maria remained until her passing.
Maria contributed to the community through her work at Fairview and Zacky Farms, retiring at 65. She was a devoted IDES, SES, and UPPEC Fraternal Society member and a faithful attendee of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Maria’s passion for farming continued as she nurtured a prolific garden on her 1.5-acre lot. She was loved by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren earning her the affectionate titles of Avo' and Visavo'.
Maria leaves behind a legacy through her children: Mary Van Groningen (Danny), Mary Jo Avila (Anthony), Phyllis Bachant, Lisa Pinheiro-Morillas (Scott), Helder Pinheiro (Tangee), John Pinheiro (Trish), and Bernice Seidel (Gregory); 16 grandchildren: Daniel (Andrea), Michael (Sarah), Kevin (Ashley), Rosalie (Carlos), Anthony Jr., Darren (Mattilyn), Casey, Nicholas, Matthew, Megan, Janae (Jason), Savannah, Brogan, Braxton, Ryan, Natalie; and 15 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe, and sisters, Hirondina Soeiro and Fernanda Trindade. She is survived by sisters Senhorinha Jorge, Fatima Vieira, and brothers Joseph Garcia, and Carlos Correia.
A Rosary service will be held on May 17, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fresno at 10:00 AM, followed by Mass at 10:30 AM. Reception will follow with private interment at Belmont Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances/masses may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 4636 W. Dakota Ave, Fresno, CA 93722.
Maria’s warmth, generosity, and spirited love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
