Maria (da Costa) Fernandes , 83, of Fall River, wife of the late Manuel Fernandes , passed away peacefully at Sarah Brayton Nursing Home on Monday June 20.. Born in Ribeira Seca, St.Michael, Azores, she was the daughter of the late Manuel and Ambrozina ( Teixeira ) Aguiar. Maria worked in the local garment industry as a machine operator for many years and was a member of Unite. She was a woman of strong faith and compassion giving much of herself to many. She also enjoyed cooking and spending time with her loving family. Beloved mother of Luis Moniz (wife-Leonor) and Joseph Fernandes both of Fall River, and Helen Pires (husband-Tony) of North Dartmouth. She leaves five grandchildren; Cliff, Kimberly and Lellean Moniz, Daniel and Jeffrey Pires. Greatgrandchildren: Chace, Jax and Hannah Pires, Kaylee and Paisley Moniz. She also leaves a brother, Manuel Costa , and a sister, Leonor Viveiros, both of Fall River and several nieces and nephews. Her Funeral Mass was celebrated on Saturday, June 25th, in Espirito Santo Church followed by her committal at Notre Dame Cemetery.