Maria P. Vega-Rivera

North Providence- Maria P. Vega-Rivera 71, passed away on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 in Rhode Island Hospital after being struck by a plow truck clearing snow from the parking lot at Maple Gardens where she lived. She was the former wife of Thomas Cruz of New York and Juan Pena Sr. of Framingham, MA.

Born in Salinas, Puerto Rico, daughter of the late Eusebio Vega and Olga Leticia Rivera.

Maria worked as a Certified Nurse’s Aide for St. Patrick’s Manor in Framingham, MA prior to retiring.

She was a member of Maple Leaf Tenants Association. 

Maria loved her children and grandchildren, taking care of her flowers, crocheting, sewing, watching television, Pinterest, and shopping on-online. 

She is survived by her four children, Diane Lopez and her husband Elias Lopez of Woonsocket, Betty Cruz of New York, Yvette Katzen and her husband Joel Katzen of Mendon, MA, and Juan Pena Jr. and his significant other Sarah Massa of New Bedford, MA. One sister, Iris Vega of Texas. And one brother Harry Vega of New York. 9 grandchildren, Melissa, Tiffany, Angel, Julissa, Crystal, Patrisha, Jordan, Josiah, and Jacob and 3 step grandchildren Marlenne, Silkya, and Joel Jr. And 20 great grandchildren. 

She also was the sister of the late Jose Alberto Vega.

Her Services will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at 3:30 PM in the S. DiPardo Memorial Chapel Funeral Home 1583 Diamond Hill Rd. Woonsocket, RI 02895. Relatives and friends are invited; calling hours are from 1:30-4 PM. Burial arraignments will be announced at a later date in Puerto Rico. 

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