Obituary of Maria Cristina DeSousa

Maria Cristina DeSousa, age 65, of Hackettstown, NJ, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center in New Brunswick, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on March 18, 1959, in Lisbon, Portugal, Maria was the beloved daughter of the late Alvaro and Manuela Reis. She married Victor DeSousa on June 8, 1980, and together they built a beautiful life rooted in love and family.

Maria was a proud case manager at NJ SHARES, a nonprofit organization, where her dedication and compassion for others shone brightly. She had the gift to excel at everything she committed to. Her infectious personality and radiant smile were guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on everyone she came across. Along with her husband, she created a home that was always a place of refuge for those who felt rejected-even by their own.  Her faith was unwavering, and she was a cherished member of the Clinton Presbyterian Church. Maria found joy in cooking, playing Uno, watching European soccer, and, most importantly, spending treasured moments with her family. 

Maria is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years, Victor DeSousa; her loving daughters, Tania and Vania; her sons-in-law, Matthew and Paul; and her four adored grandsons, Shaun, Tyler, Eli, and Michael. Her memory will also live on in the hearts of her extended family and friends who loved her dearly.

A service of remembrance will be held on Sunday, December 1st, at 11:30 AM at the Clinton Presbyterian Church, 91 Center Street, Clinton, NJ 08809.

To view Maria's service via live stream, Please Click Here

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Maria's name to Tabby’s Place: a Cat Sanctuary, honoring her love for animals. Please Click Here to Donate

To send condolences or share memories, please visit www.martinfh.com.

Maria’s life was one of love, faith, and kindness—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.