Maria Valerio, 52, of Fall River, passed away on Tuesday after a long illness. She was the longtime companion of Joe Santos. Born in St. Michael, Azores, daughter of Maria (DeMelo) Carreiro of Fall River and the late Manuel Carreiro. Beloved mother of Stacey Gaspar (companion-Daniel Sineiro) and Kathleen Valerio (companion-Mark Nunes), both of Fall River; stepmother of Jeremy and Britney Santos of Fall River; sister of Antonio (wife-Nicki) and Luis (wife-Kerri) Carreiro of Fall River, Paul (wife-Karen) Carreiro of Cranston, RI, Herman (wife-Wanda) Carreiro of California and the late Alda Hamilton; grandmother of Owen and Brodey Gaspar and Hunter Oliveira. She also leaves behind and was loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Before her cremation, calling hours were held on Thursday evening, December 3rd, in our Fall River Chapel. In lieu of flowers, a donation to help the family defray funeral expenses would be appreciated.