Maria Fonseca, 75, of Seekonk, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, August 25, 2024 after a year-long battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). Born in Portugal in 1949, she was the daughter of the late Abilio Correia Mendonca and Almerinda (Faria) Mendonca and sister to her late brother, Salvadore Faria Mendonca. Maria emigrated from Portugal to France in 1969 and then to the United States in1978 along with her loving husband, Ireneu DaFonseca, and their daughter, Nelia. She became an American Citizen and lived the American Dream by creating a wonderful home and life for her and her family.

Maria had a passion for gardening and looked forward to Spring time to grow her own vegetables and plant flowers. She also enjoyed her job as a CNA/CMT at Wingate at Blackstone, formerly Epoch, for more than 25 years. There, she was loved by fellow co-workers and patients alike for her endless kindness and willingness to always help anyway she could. Maria treasured her time with family and friends. She was very proud of her three grandchildren, whom she loved so deeply.

Maria is survived by her husband Ireneu, her daughter, Nelia Early, her son-in-law, Peter Early, and her grandchildren: Matthew Early, Katherine Early, and Thomas Early.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday August 29th, at 1:00 PM in Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, Coyle Drive, Seekonk, MA. Burial at St. Stephen Cemetery, 683 South Main St., Attleboro, MA will immediately follow.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, August 28th, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM in the Manning-Heffern-O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage St., Pawtucket.