Maria E. Cunha

Maria E. Cunha, beloved matriarch and cherished member of her family, passed away peacefully at home on December 16, 2024, at the age of 102. She was born on October 10, 1922, in Murtosa, Portugal, where her remarkable journey began.

On May 21, 1966, Maria arrived in the United States, seeking new opportunities and a better life for her family. She first settled in the Ironbound section of Newark, a vibrant Portuguese-American community that welcomed her with open arms. Years later, she moved to Parlin, where she spent the remainder of her life surrounded by loved ones. Maria worked tirelessly for 20 years in piece work, embodying strength, resilience, and determination.

Maria was a woman of deep faith, strength, and grace. She had a special devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, making the pilgrimage to the sacred chapel in Fatima dozens of times throughout her life. Her faith was a source of strength, guiding her through life’s challenges with unwavering trust and love.

As the cornerstone of her family, Maria was a gifted storyteller and the keeper of family history. Her warm, heartfelt stories connected generations, keeping her family’s legacy alive. She also found immense joy in cooking for her family, creating cherished moments gathered around the table. Her home was a place of love, laughter, and comfort, where family and friends always felt welcome.

Maria had a deep love for gardening and took pride in tending to her flowers and plants, bringing beauty and life to every space she touched.

She leaves behind a loving and devoted family: her daughters, Alexandrina Gloria Barroqueiro and Rosa M. DaCunha, and her son, John Cunha. She was predeceased by her husband, Jose M. Cunha, and her son, Jose M. Cunha, Jr. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Ana, Rui, Marisa, Daniel, Sarah, Deanna, and Joshua; her great-grandchildren: Joey, Tony, Marcia, Samantha, William, and Evelyn; and her great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Blandina Pinho, and is predeceased by her siblings Maria DosSantos, Antonio Calção, and Gloria Calção. 

Maria touched countless lives with her warm heart, strong spirit, and deep faith. She will be remembered for her wisdom, generosity, and ability to always know the right words to say.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 19, from 8:30AM -10:30AM at the funeral home located at 2800 Morris Ave, Union, NJ. A Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Elizabeth at 11 AM. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington.

Maria E. Cunha’s life was a testament to love, faith, and family. Her devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, her love for storytelling, and the many lives she touched will remain an enduring legacy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.