Maria Jose Pavao

Maria was born in Sao Miguel, Portugal, to loving parents, the late Urban and Deodata Cordeiro. She had many brothers and sisters who she loved dearly, and remained close with throughout their lives. While in Portugal, Maria built a very successful business designing and making dresses for the women in her community, an accomplishment she remained proud of and reminisced about often. She loved telling stories about her work, her siblings, and all of the nieces and nephews she helped raise with so much love.

After moving to the United States with her husband and daughter, she continued doing what she loved and became a valued seamstress for the men’s clothing store, MC Swift, a staple of Downtown New Bedford. Maria would often visit the neighboring shops, befriending everyone who worked downtown. Her light was contagious and all who met her instantly loved her.

That is Maria’s greatest legacy; love. She loved selflessly and with all her heart. Her deep spiritual beliefs and conviction guided all that she did and said. Her love was strong, quiet and thoughtful. Her way was the way of peace and compassion. Her presence was calming and reassuring. When facing life’s adversities, she maintained positivity and good humor. Maria’s laughter made everyone around her laugh just as hard, especially when with her sisters. Her smile was as warm as her hugs. She was gentle, kind, and the best cook you will ever meet.

Maria adored her daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Well into her 90’s, she would still cook them soup, cut up their apples just so, and make playful silly faces. Nothing meant more to her than her family, and the close friends that visited her often.

She is survived by her daughter Anna Pavao of New Bedford; her grandchildren, Michael Thomas and his wife Lucy of New Bedford, their children, Michael, Jr. 9 and Matthew 7; Ann Thomas and her partner Jason Pittsley of New Bedford, their children, Hannah 17 and Tommy 8; and many nieces and nephews. She is survived by two brothers and was predeceased by several brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 10:00 to 11:00AM followed by a funeral service at 11:00AM in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, followed by a reception at Century House. To leave a note of condolence: www.rock-funeralhome.com