Obituary of Maritza Cardoso

September 10, 2026

Maritza Estela Cardoso Berrido, passed away peacefully in her home in New York City, on September 10, 2026.
In her Gentle and Peaceful passing she was accompanied by her only daughter Rosie and her niece Lisa.

Maritza, known by all as ‘Tia Mary’, was born on March 6, 1946 in La Vega, Dominican Republic. The daughter of Jaime Rodriguez Molins and Mercedes Fernandez. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her older sister Lilia Margarita Bird Rodriguez.

She is survived by her only daughter Rosalía (Rosie) Berrido, whom she lived with the last seven and a half years of her life. Survived by her sisters Nancy Medina, Cristina Cook and her brothers Aldo Russo and Cristian Rodriguez. She is also survived by her first husband and lifetime friend, Rosie’s father, Tony Berrido.

Maritza was jovial, loving, kind, playful, practical and compassionate in her ways, her views and philosophy of life. Her Parkinson’s (PD) diagnosed 19 years ago was never a deterrent to her zest for life, for love and grace for living in the moment. She will always be remembered for her generosity; her calm gentle and loving spirit; as well as her sense of humor, fashion and practicality. Maritza travelled to the United States at the age of 14; she spoke three languages and worked in corporate America for most of her life. She enjoyed crocheting and loved perfumes, her trademark fragrance was “O” de Lancôme. Her happy place was listening to Music, Eating with her daughter Rosie and having fresh flowers, always!

Her daughter Rosie, kindly requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation. Any donation big or small - Always makes a difference! Gracias!!

Rest in peace, Ma’! I love you. I love. I love! Tu hija, Rosie.

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