Maria Alicea

María Teresa Alicea, 69, lovingly remembered as “Reina” passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at Norwalk Hospital on December 22, 2024. Maria was a shining example of strength, love, and cultural pride. She was born on August 25, 1955, in San Lorenzo, PR, to Faustino Alicea and Juana Rosado Alicea. She was raised alongside eight siblings, instilling in her a strong sense of family values. She found immense joy in her children, Jairo, Juan Carlos, Hector, and Ezequiel, and adored her eight grandchildren.

Maria found pleasure in uplifting cultural dance and music such as salsa and merengue depicting her fondness for her roots and her admiration of life. She enjoyed dressing up and being fashionable. Her strong sense of community was her constant motivation to spread joy and positivity to all who knew her through her infectious smile and caring spirit. She also liked daily walks, and was a faithful customer at all bodegas throughout South Norwalk. In particular, locals knew her as a familiar face who frequented the Crespo grocery store, commonly known as “the yellow store” to purchase her favorite pastime, lottery tickets and scratch-offs. Her lifelong ties to South Norwalk and her Puerto Rican heritage will forever remain unbroken.

Maria’s family will always treasure memories of her flavorful cooking, the sweet aromas of Bustelo coffee in the mornings, tuning into News 12 often, and her love of frogs and owls. Though her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts, Maria’s unmatched love and kindness will remain her legacy for years to come.

The family welcomes you to pay your tributes to “Reina” and offer your lasting goodbyes.

Her scheduled viewing times are as follows:

Sunday December 29, 2024 4-8 PM (4-5 PM immediate family ONLY, 5-8 PM public viewing)

Monday December 30, 2024: 9-11 AM public viewing, followed by burial procession at 11 AM.