Over 72 years ago, she met her future husband, Alcides Martins DaSilva, at a Portuguese festival. What started as sharing a dance, turned into sharing a lifetime – the two lovebirds were inseparable. So much so, that not even the Atlantic Ocean could not get in the way. For four years, their only correspondence were letters, as Alcides wrote to Maria from America before she joined him. The couple married in Carregosa, Portugal in 1955.
Maria was the ultimate caretaker, not only for her family but for the community surrounding her. Her home was known for bold flavorful smells that preceded a hot meal for all that were hungry – neighbors, friends, and even strangers, as the DaSilva’s helped settle Portuguese immigrants chasing the American dream.
Maria herself, lived that dream to the fullest, raising three beautiful children in a comfy home on Cookie Lane in Islip Terrace NY. Maria and Alcides moved to South Florida in 1985 but were sure to bring tradition with them.
They became active members of the Port St. Lucie’s Portuguese American Cultural Club. For many years, Maria served as the Club’s cook, preparing traditional dishes that gave the community a taste of home during countless celebrations.
Maria was predeceased by her husband, Alcides and her brother, Ze Luis. She is survived by her two sisters Mimosa and Bebe, her three beloved children Maria, Joe, and Theresa, daughter-in-law Judy, son-in-law Ken, and six grandchildren Jessica, Jill, Joe, Jack, Hope, and Ben. Maria is also survived by many relatives and friends in Portugal, Canada, and Brazil.
Maria will be remembered during a Visitation at Ayock Funeral Home in Tradition on Friday, July 7th from 5:00pm-9:00 p.m. and a mass at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church on Saturday, July 8th at 10:00 a.m.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.aycocktradition.com for the DaSilva family.
