Maria Originia deSousa

Maria Originia DeSousa, 95, of Fall River, MA, former widow of Joao Furtado Curvelo, passed away peacefully from this life on August 23, 2025, in Fall River. Born in Ponta Garça, Sao Miguel, Acores, and was the daughter of Jose DeSousa Avila, and her mother, Urania (DeMello) DeSousa.

Maria emigrated to Fall River, MA in 1985. A retired garment worker, Maria was a seamstress in her hometown. She also enjoyed crocheting and spending time with her family.

She was more than just a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; she was a pillar of strength for her daughters and sons—Connie Benevides (husband John), Urania Rodrigues (husband Antonio), Maria do Carmo Ribeiro (husband David), and Fatima Sousa (husband Jose). Joao Furtado (wife Fernanda), and Jose Furtado (wife Connie). Maria held a special place in the lives of her cherished grandchildren: Flavio Ribeiro, Lysendra Riquinha, Kelvina Fernandes, Jason Sousa, Bruno Ribeiro, Alex Furtado, Ashley Aguiar, and Breanne Furtado. Her heart swelled with love for her great-grandsons, Ethan Riquinha, Xander Riquinha, and Nathan Sousa who brought her pure joy and a sense of connection to future generations.

Visitation will be held Friday morning from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. at the Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main St. Fall River. Her Funeral Mass will follow at Good Shepherd Church, 1598 South Main St. at 10:00 a.m. She will be entombed at Notre Dame Cemetery Mausoleum.