Maria Inez (Maioto) Martins

Riverside - Maria Inez (Maioto) Martins, known lovingly as Maria, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at her home in Riverside, Rhode Island, at the age of 86.

Born on March 18, 1940, in Lagoa, Sao Miguel,Azores Maria was the daughter of the late Jose DaCosta Maioto and Beatriz DeJesus (Botelho) Maioto. She carried the values of her upbringing throughout her life, meeting each season with grace, strength, and devotion. Her life was marked by faith, hard work, and a deep love for the people around her.

Maria was the beloved wife of the late Durval Martins and later the wife of Robert Gouveia. She was a devoted mother to Aniceto Martins, Roberto Martins, and Adilia Littlejohn. She also cherished her role as grandmother to nine grandchildren and great-grandmother to twelve great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her heart, and she found great joy in being surrounded by those she loved. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will remember her with affection and gratitude.

Maria spent over 40 years working as a jewelry assembler for Miller Manufacturing before retiring. Her long career reflected her steady work ethic, patience, and dedication. She took pride in her work and in the relationships she built over the years. After moving to Riverside from Providence in 1978, she made her home there for the rest of her life and became a familiar and respected presence in her community.

Faith was an important part of Maria’s life, and she was a member of Zion Gospel Temple. Her church family was a source of comfort and fellowship, and she lived her life with a spirit grounded in belief and hope. She was known as a loving, faith-filled, and courageous woman who faced life’s challenges with quiet dignity and unwavering strength.

Maria also found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially Portuguese biscuits, banana bread, and rice pudding. These cherished recipes were more than just favorite dishes. They were expressions of her love, and many family members will remember her through the warmth of her kitchen and the comfort of the foods she prepared. Her home was often a place of welcome, filled with the aromas, laughter, and memories that made family gatherings so special.

Those who knew Maria will remember her for her kind heart, her steadfast faith, and her gentle spirit. She was a woman who gave generously of herself and who loved deeply. Her presence brought comfort and strength to her family, and her memory will continue to live on in the lives she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, perseverance, and devotion will remain an enduring blessing to all who knew her.

Maria Inez (Maioto) Martins leaves behind a life well lived and a family forever grateful for her example. Her journey was one of faith, courage, and devotion, and her memory will be cherished always.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her graveside service on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10:00am in North Burial Ground ,5 Branch Avenue, Providence.

Calling Hours and flowers are respectfully omitted.  Arrangements by REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, East Providence.

www.rebellofuneralhomes.com.

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