Obituary
It is with profound sadness and deep faith in the resurrection that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother (Mãe) and Grandmother (Avó), Maria Helena Meneses DaSilva, on January 23rd, 2026 at the blessed age of 90. A devout Catholic, Maria was called home to the Lord, surrounded by her loving family and comforted by the prayers of her faith community. She was a cherished and beloved wife to her devoted husband João (John) of 65 years. She was a gentle, nurturing and selfless mother to her four children Connie, Dorothy (Enzo), John (Tina) and Michael (Irene), and a proud, adoring Avó to Luca, Liliana and Marina. Maria was born in Quatro Ribeiras, Terçeira, Portugal to Francisco and Maria Meneses. She was the 3rd born, sister to Purificação, Salomé, Francisco, Durvalina and Domingos. She lived a life defined by peace, family and an unwavering faith in God. She was a dedicated parishioner of Santa Cruz, where she found joy in prayer and the singing of hymns while living out her commitment to her faith. Her pure love for Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary was palpable. Her home was a sanctuary of love, always filled with the aroma of her cooking, the warmth of her character and the ringing echo of her incredible laugh. Whether she was tending to her garden, cooking a Sunday meal for her family, or praying her Rosary, she did everything with love. Maria leaves behind a legacy of strength, compassion, and deep-rooted Catholic values. She taught us to trust in God’s plan and to cherish family above all. Maria will be laid to rest on Tuesday, February 3rd on what would have been her 65th wedding anniversary. May she rest in the peace of Christ, whom she served faithfully.
In Lieu of flowers, donations to 'Society of the Little Flower' would be appreciated. It has, for years, been a charity near and dear to Maria's heart.
"Maria lived a life of faith, hope and charity, and now rests in the arms of her Saviour, free from pain and sorrow."
Visitation
February 03, 2026
Cardinal Funeral Homes-Bathurst
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Service
February 03, 2026
Santa Cruz Catholic Church
01:00 PM
Entombment
February 03, 2026
Beechwood Cemetery- Mausoleum of the Madonna
02:30 PM
Timing for cemetery is approximate

