Victoria Rocha

Victoria "Vickie" Rocha, 67, entered into eternal rest on November 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her closest family.

Born on March 11, 1958, in Rosais, São Jorge, to Antonio and Laura Maciel, Vickie was one of thirteen children. In 1969, she immigrated with her family to Pescadero, later settling in Watsonville, then Gilroy, and eventually making her home in Aromas. Rooted in her Azorean heritage that drew from the Catholic faith and devotion to family, Vickie lived a life defined by humility, kindness, and an unwavering love for others. Known affectionately to many as "Tia Vickie," she was a mother, Avó, sister, aunt, and friend who welcomed everyone with open arms and a generous heart.??

Vickie had an endless supply of love, always placing the needs of her family and friends before her own. She created a warm and welcoming home where everyone gathered-whether for joyous Easter celebrations filled with laughter and delight for the children, or elaborate Halloween gatherings that brought smiles to every face. Her greatest joy was being Avó to her beloved grandchildren, never missing a school play, sporting event, or local Portuguese festival. To them, her family and all who knew her, she was a constant source of encouragement, comfort, and unconditional love.??

She was devoted to her community, participating in the IFDES Portuguese Society in Gilroy and the ISTW Portuguese Society in Watsonville. In her free time, Vickie could often be found gathered around the kitchen table with loved ones or traveling with family.

Vickie was preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Laura Maciel; brothers, Antonio Maciel, Horacio Reis, and John Maciel; and sisters-in-laws, Susan Maciel and Niveria Maciel. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Lynette (Frank) Smith; sons, Michael (Crystal) Rocha and Joseph (Adriana) Rocha; and her six treasured grandchildren: Brandon Smith, Ryan Smith, Adam Smith, Taylor Rocha, Madison Rocha, and Maxwell Rocha. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Rafaela (Joe) Sequeira, Leonesa (Frank) Azevedo, Alda (Scott) Morrison; her brothers, Alduar (Adelaide) Reis, Ed Maciel, Mario (Nancy) Maciel, Armando (Fatima) Maciel, Manuel Maciel, and Honorio Louie Maciel; her sister-in-laws, Aldina Maciel and Ilda Reis; and many nieces, nephews and cousins- all of whom she loved beyond measure.

A Rosary and Mass of Catholic Burial will take place at Our Lady Help of Christians Valley Church in Watsonville on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 beginning at 10am. May her soul, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in Gilroy Dispatch and The Pajaronian · November 12, 2025