Maria's obituary
Maria Maximina Fernandes, aged 87, passed away on April 26, 2026 in Portugal. Born on February 21, 1939, Maria was a cherished wife, mother, and active member of Our Lady of Fatima church in Bridgeport, Our Lady of Peace, Stratford and the Cursos de Cristandade.
Maria was deeply devoted to praying for the souls in purgatory, and she loved to lend a helping hand to busy mothers, caring for their children and even weeding their yards. Her gardens were a testament to her dedication and many of her house plants and perennials live on with family and friends. Maria emigrated to the U.S. in 1966 with her husband and eldest child, bravely leaving everything she knew behind.
She is survived by her devoted husband Lourenco Fernandes and her loving children, Paula Henriques (Jose), Lawrence Fernandes (Teresa), Samuel Fernandes (Terezinha), and Catarina Pech (Bernard). Maria's legacy continues through her grandchildren, David, Sol, Maria, Simon, Madalena, Daniel, Isaac, and Dalia. She is also survived by her twin brother, Jose Marques. Maria was preceded in death by her parents Jose Miguel, Laura Dos Anjos and siblings; Maria Margarida Dos Anjos, Maria Dos Anjos, Manuel Miguel, Julio Miguel, and Maria Alice Dos Anjos.
Maria's life was marked by her nurturing spirit, kindness, sense of humor and the deep connections she forged with those around her. Although She was not able to communicate her love verbally for some time, her family knew the deep love she had for them. Her presence will be profoundly missed. Services are being held in Ribamar, Portugal with a mass in Connecticut at a later date.