Maria Ligia Costa's Obituary
Maria Ligia (Sousa) Costa, 89, of Methuen, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Boston Medical Center, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished wife of the late Serafim Costa, with whom she shared 63 beautiful years of marriage.
Born on September 26, 1935, in the scenic Faial, Azores, Portugal, Maria was the beloved daughter of the late Henrique and Maria Amelia (Silva) Sousa. She brought her warmth and talents to the United States, where she worked as a skilled seamstress at Mutual Manufacturing in Lawrence for over 20 years, pouring her heart into every stitch. Maria’s hands were rarely still—she found joy in knitting, sewing, and crocheting, creating countless treasures for her loved ones. Her kitchen was a haven of comfort, where she crafted delicious meals for her family and lovingly prepared feasts for her grandson Nelson and his friends. Maria’s caring and nurturing spirit shone brightest in her role as a devoted family matriarch, especially in the precious moments she spent with her great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
Maria leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever live in the hearts of her daughter, Fernanda Alexandre, and her fiancée, Fernando, of Methuen; her grandson, Nelson Alexandre, and his wife, Heather, of Methuen; and her two great-grandchildren, Daisy and Colton Alexandre, who brought her endless joy. She is also survived by her sisters, Zelia Leal and her husband, Jaime, of Newark, CA, and Manuela Martines of Portugal, as well as many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
Family and friends are warmly invited to honor and celebrate Maria’s remarkable life during calling hours from 9 to 10 AM on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence Street, Methuen. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 AM at St. Monica Church, 212 Lawrence Street, Methuen, where her faith and spirit will be remembered. Burial will be private, allowing her family a quiet moment to reflect on her enduring legacy.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Maria’s memory may be made to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. For directions or to share condolences online, please visit www.pollardfuneralhome.com. The Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home is privileged to serve the Costa family during this time of remembrance.
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