Maria Eugenia L. (Lisboa) Xavier, 97, of New Bedford died January 6, 2019 at home after a long illness surrounded by her family.
She was the wife of the late Antone Xavier and Antonio Francisco Almeida.
Born in Vila deRibeira Brava, Sao Nicolau, Cape Verde, the daughter of the late Eugenia Lisboa and Eunice Fermin, she emigrated to the United States in 1971 living in New Bedford.
She was a communicant of Our Lady of the Assumption Church.
Mrs. Xavier was formerly employed as a textile worker in the textile mills and most enjoyed being a homemaker and caretaker. Although Maria never had any children, she was a wonderful surrogate mother to many nieces, nephews and other children in the community.
Survivors include her brother, Antonio Gomes, Sr. of Providence; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous Godchildren.
She was the sister of the late Maria DaLuz DeBrito and Anna Anastia.
Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 12th at 9 AM in Our Lady of the Assumption Church. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Friday, January 11th from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.