FALL RIVER - Our hearts are broken as we say goodbye to our beloved Mom, Vavo, Sister, and Tia Elvira C. Moniz, age 84, who passed away unexpectedly and too soon on May 7, 2025 at home.   She was the long-time companion of Jose Camara.  Born in Sivalde, Portugal, she was the daughter of the late Mariano and Conceição (Pombeiro) Moniz.

Elvira was more than just the matriarch of her family — she was its heart, soul, and sass. To most, she was lovingly known as "Mom" or "Tia," titles that she carried with unwavering devotion and her own inimitable style.  She packed lunches for everyone, gave rides without hesitation, and showed up — always — for those she loved. Her selflessness knew no bounds, especially as the devoted primary caregiver to her brother, Jose.

Elvira's nurturing spirit extended beyond caregiving. She was a gifted seamstress (who was always ready to hem a pair of pants) and a spectacular cook, whose shepherd pie with an unexpected taco kick was as feisty as she was and was often requested by friends and family.

Professionally, Elvira dedicated herself to helping others. She worked at the Belmont House (a nursing home in Toronto), as a residential counselor at Crystal Springs School, and at Southpointe Nursing Center, where her strong work ethic and compassion knew no bounds.

Her journey was one of quiet strength and resilience. But make no mistake, Elvira was a force of nature who was not afraid to speak her mind.  A legacy she has left to all of the young women and men who were lucky enough to know her. Born in Portugal, she moved as a young girl to Ribeira Grande, and then, in her twenties, to Toronto, Canada, where she spent two decades building an independent life before ultimately settling in the United States. In every place Elvira called home, she left behind love, laughter, and a fierce history of self- reliance that inspired all those whose lives she touched.

She was loved and cherished by many people, especially her daughters, Betty and Christine Camara and, the light of her life, her grandson, Austin T. Arruda.  She will also be missed by her siblings, Jose Moniz, Encarnação Pacheco, Maria Do Ceu Martins and Olinda Ferreira, as well as many nieces and nephews.  She will spend eternity with her grandson, Anthony Cabral Jr., who predeceased her. She was also the sister of the late Mariano R. Moniz and Francisco Moniz.

Elvira's funeral will take place from the Manuel Rogers Funeral Home, 1521 North Main Street, Fall River, on Tuesday, May 13th here at 9 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Michael's Church at 10:00 a.m. Interment in St. Patrick's Cemetery. Calling hours will be on Monday, May 12th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

To send the family expressions of sympathy, please click the Guest Book below. You may also light a candle in honor of Elvira or send a flower arrangement to the funeral service.