Maria Conceicao (de Sousa) Costa

Maria Conceicao (de Sousa) Costa, aged 75, of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished wife of John S. Costa.

Born on September 4, 1950, in Horta, Faial, Azores, Maria was the beloved daughter of the late Delfim de Sousa and Maria (da Silva) de Sousa. A woman of intellect and dedication, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree and devoted many years to shaping young minds as a teacher at New Bedford High School. Her commitment to education left a lasting impact on her students and the community. She also spent many of her working years as an office manager.

Maria's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her devoted husband, John S. Costa; her children Eric Costa and his wife Susan, Melinda Bielski and her husband Evan, and Stacie Da Costa and her husband Christopher. She took great joy in her role as grandmother to Collin, Quinn, Brayden, Logan, Ellie, Leandro, and Rafael, who brought her immense happiness.

Maria was a beloved matriarch, a devoted mother, and the heart of the family. Her presence brought warmth and strength to all who knew her. Her unconditional love will be a guiding light, living on in the cherished memories and the lives she so deeply touched.

Visitation for Maria will be held on Thursday evening, April 9, 2026, at Perry Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The funeral service will commence on Friday morning, April 10, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Perry Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church at 10:00 AM. The interment will take place immediately afterward at South Dartmouth Cemetery.

Perry Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements and warmly welcomes all who wish to pay their respects. The facility offers the convenience of a lighted parking lot and a handicap-accessible ramp and entrance, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all attendees.