Maria R. Dias

Maria Rosa Dias, affectionately known as Old Vóvó to those who loved her, passed away peacefully on the 1st of August, 2025, at the age of 102 in Mt. Vernon, New York. Born on March 28th, 1923, in Frades do Rio, Montalegre, Maria carried the spirit of her Portuguese homeland in her heart throughout her life.

Maria was the beloved matriarch of a family that revered her for her loving nature, spirited character, and unwavering faith. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Daniel Carneiro, and her dear son, Antonio Carneiro. Her legacy continues through her sons, Benjamin and Bento, daughters-in-law Maria and Helena, her adored grandchildren Andre Carneiro, Maria Claudia (Keith) Goubeaud, Elizabeth (Phillip) Justich, Sylvia (Michael) Nowell, and Daniel (Maria) Carneiro, as well as her nine treasured great-grandchildren.

Though Maria never pursued formal education or a career, her life was rich with the teachings of experience, the labor of love, and the joy of community involvement. She dedicated her life to her family and her faith, embodying the virtues of a Proverbs 31 woman. Maria's hands were never idle; she was always found tending to the needs of her family or offering a helping hand to her neighbors.

A devout Christian, Maria's life was a testament to her unshakeable belief in the goodness of the Lord. She instilled this faith in her children and grandchildren, creating a spiritual legacy that would last for generations. Her heart and her home were always open, and those who knew her were touched by her compassion and grace.

Maria's interests were simple yet profound. She found joy in the everyday moments, whether it was sharing a meal with her family, recounting stories from her youth, or whispering prayers in the quiet of the evening. She lived a life full of gratitude, never taking for granted the blessings bestowed upon her.

Those who knew Maria would describe her as the epitome of love. She was a beacon of light in her community, her spirit a source of warmth and comfort to all. Her faith was her guiding force, and she walked through life with a conviction that inspired those around her.

As we bid farewell to Maria Rosa Dias, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul returned to her Creator. We take solace in the knowledge that she is now reunited with her beloved Daniel and Antonio, and we cherish the memory of her love, which remains with us always. Maria's life was a journey of joy, love, and unwavering faith, and her story will be recounted with fondness and admiration by all who were fortunate enough to have been a part of it.

"Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.'" – Proverbs 31:28-29

We honor the life of Maria Rosa Dias, a woman of strength, love, and faith. Her spirit will forever be etched in the hearts of her family and friends. Rest in peace, Old Vóvó, until we meet again in the presence of our Lord.

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