Maria DeSousa, 78, of New Bedford passed away on Monday, March 16, 2020.

She was the wife of Valter DeSousa  for 36 years.

She was the daughter of the late Manuel & Natalie Medeiros of Somerset.

She lived in Somerset for many years, graduated from Somerset High School, attended St.John of God Church & St. Thomas More Church while

raising her children there.  She was a CNA & worked at Clifton Nursing Home for decades.

Besides her husband, she is survived by: 3 children,

Mark Oldham & his wife Jayne of New Hampshire,

Elizabeth Blakey of Fall River, MA., and Kristine Wilbur of Seekonk, MA.

5 grandchildren; Sean Oldham, Corey Wilbur, Heather Blakey,

Jason Blakey, Stephanie Blakey 5 great-grandchildren; Nina, Brandon & Jackson Blakey, Caedence M. Pavao & Lucas Brady Wilbur.

Her brother Albert Medeiros & his wife Paula of Somerset.

Several nieces & nephews.

Her children, grandchildren & great-grandchildren were her pride & joy.

She adored her family. Maria had a deep passion for traveling &

had many, many friends that she & Valter traveled with over the years.

When they were home they graciously entertained with many pool parties & delicious Portuguese food. Maria was usually the life of the party & sincerely lived life to the fullest. Maria also loved gardening, her Koi pond & her precious cats.

She will be deeply missed by everyone that had the honor to know her.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later time.