Maria Alice Oliveira, also known as Mina, passed away on November 17, 2009. She was born on January 9, 1928, in Horta Faial, an island of the Azores off of Portugal. After coming to San Diego, she married Antonio Oliveira and became very active as a parishioner at Saint Agnes Church, and with the United Portuguese S.E.S. Community to preserve the Portuguese heritage here in Point Loma. She had a generous heart for many in the community, both as a caregiver and foster mother for infants and toddlers, as well as an unofficial caregiver to other seniors in the area to ensure that their errands, shopping, and meals were provided so that they knew someone truly cared.

Mary Alice was also known as the "Bread Lady," and was always making cakes, cookies and of course her famous sweet bread, for birthdays, get well, or thank you gifts. She made her sweet bread in honor of her faith in the Holy Spirit for every holiday and throughout the year for the Festa do Espirito Santo.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Tony, her parents Tony and Elvira Correia, and her brother Roger Correia de Melo. She is survived by her sister Estela Correia Miller; three nieces, Michele Arterberry (husband John, children Abraham and Megan), Teri Ferguson (children Melissa and Derek), and Patricia Camacho (husband Victor, children Janessa, Samantha, Marlaena, and Daniella). The extended family of cousins, friends and the children in her care over the years is a list too long to begin.

She will be missed by her family and friends and will always be remembered for her faith, love and friendship and her belief in the gift of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. A Rosary and Mass in her honor will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, on Saturday, November 21, 2009, at 9:30 a.m.

Source:
San Diego Union-Tribune, November 20, 2009