Maria da Conceição Cabrita, lovingly known as São Cabrita, passed away on October 24, 2026, in Syracuse, Utah. She was born on April 3, 1959, in Vale de Azares, Celorico da Beira, Portugal, and carried the heart of her Portuguese heritage with her throughout her life.

In the 1980s, Maria migrated from Portugal to Rhode Island, where she built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and tradition. She was married for 44 years to her beloved husband, Vitorino Cabrita, whose memory remained an important part of her life. Maria was a woman who loved to care for her family, and that devotion could be felt in the warmth of her home, the meals she prepared, and the traditions she lovingly preserved.

Maria worked for more than 20 years in manufacturing as a machine operator at Leviton in Rhode Island. She also spent 15 years self-employed as a house cleaner in Rhode Island. In every season of her working life, she was known for her dedication and steady commitment, giving of herself in ways that helped provide for and support those she loved.

Her life was rich with the things that mattered most to her. Maria was a faithful parishioner of Our Lady of the Rosary Church and a longstanding member of the Cranston Portuguese Club Folklore Group. She was also a great Portuguese cook and baker of her well known cavacas, sharing love generously through the food she prepared. Each year, she welcomed loved ones into her home to host Thanksgiving, creating cherished memories around her table. She also found joy in maintaining a large garden, fruitful of vegetables and fresh flowers, making her home a place of beauty and comfort. 

Above all, Maria adored her grandchildren, who were her biggest joy. Her love for them was deep and constant, and they brought special light to her life.

Maria is survived by her son, Nelson Cabrita; her daughter, Susie Cabrita Cook, and her son-in-law, Shaun Cook, and her grandchildren, Sofia and Mateo. She also leaves behind her father, Jose Trindade; her sisters, Maria Lucilia Vasco and Anabela Trindade; her brothers, Antonio Trindade, Joseph Trindade, Rui Trindade, and Michael Trindade; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and godchildren. Maria leaves behind a legacy of love and treasured memories in the hearts of all who knew her. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vitorino Cabrita, and her mother, Lucinda Trindade.

Maria will be remembered for her loving care, her strong faith, her hardworking spirit, the pride she took in her family, and heritage. The love she gave so freely is a lasting gift to all who knew her, and her memory will forever remain in our hearts. 

Viewing and services will be held in Rhode Island.