Maria S. Arruda

Maria S. (Matues) Arruda, 84, of Fall River, a retired sewing machine operator, passed away on June 25, 2025, at Somerset Ridge Center. She was the wife of the late Joseph C. Arruda.

Born on October 31, 1940, in Mosteiros, St. Michael, Azores, Maria brought warmth and joy to the lives of those she loved throughout her lifetime.

Maria was more than a skilled seamstress; she was an artist in the kitchen. She had a true passion for cooking and baking, delighting her family with delicious meals and treats. Known as the queen of Malasadas, her sweet bread became a cherished staple at family gatherings.  Maria's knack for crocheting showcased her creativity in yet another form, embodying her spirit in every stitch.

Family was at the heart of Maria's life. She took immense pleasure in spending quality time with her loved ones.

She was the mother of Joseph M. Arruda (wife Rhonda), Paul Arruda (wife Cynthia), Tony Arruda (wife Shelly), and Susan Cardelli (companion James Maxwell); the grandmother of Monica Arruda, Brittany Domingues (husband Eric), Linsey Continho (husband Brandon), Samantha Arruda, Tyler Arruda, Lexus Arruda, and Cory Cardelli; the great-grandmother of DeShawn, Nevaeh, Christian, Adalena, Eleanor, and Legend; the sister of John Camara (wife Nancy) and the late Mario Camara; the aunt of several nieces and nephews.

She was the daughter of the late Manuel Gregory Matues Camara and  Maria Concaicao Mateus.

Her visitation will be held Monday, June 30, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main St. Fall River.  

Her funeral will be held Tuesday, July 1, at 9:00 AM from the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial at Santo Christo Church, Columbia St. at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Forever Paws Animal Shelter.  300 Lynwood St. Fall River, MA 02721.