Maria Mena

On February 17, 2026, Maria Milagros Mena-Rivera peacefully entered eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her two beloved children, Jose Ramon Ortiz (59) and Lizette Marie Ortiz (57); her six siblings, Ramona Mena, Maria J. Mena-Echevarria (Jose), Gladys Tirado, Ramon Rosado, Carmen Rosado, and Luz M. Rosado; many nieces and nephews, extended family, and all who were blessed to know her.

Born on July 10, 1949, in Manatí, Puerto Rico, to Luz Maria Rivera and Nemesio Mena, Maria embraced motherhood at just 17 years old. For nearly six decades, she poured her life into raising her two children with special needs with remarkable strength, patience, and devotion. She dedicated 32 years as a Special Needs Paraprofessional at Skane School in Bridgeport, where she was honored as “Mother of the Year” for her compassion and commitment. For more than 50 years, her children were part of the Kennedy Center community, where they were well known and cherished, and Maria also found fellowship and joy as a member of the East Side Senior Center.

Family meant everything to Maria. Sunday dinners were a treasured tradition, and Christmas Eve was especially dear to her heart. Each year, she made sure every child in the family received a gift; no one was ever forgotten. Giving brought her joy, and her generosity created memories that will live on for generations.

Maria was a faithful member of Iglesia Bautista-Emanuel, and on February 16, 2016, Maria was baptized, publicly declaring her faith in Jesus Christ. Her trust in the Lord carried her through every season of life.

A celebration of Maria's life will take place on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at City Wide Church located at 2385 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT.  Interment will follow at Park Cemetery, 625 Lindley Street, Bridgeport, CT.

Maria will be remembered for her strength, her faith, her giving spirit, and the unconditional love she poured into her family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.