Maria Magdalen Jorge was born to Cezar and Felicidade Almeida on a homestead in Byron, California and raised in Livingston and Turlock.  She graduated from Turlock High School in 1943 after which she worked in Modesto at a children’s clothing store, The Little Folk Shop.  In 1953, she married Alfred John Jorge of Turlock, and was later employed as a floral designer at Turlock Flower Shop for 30 years.  Maria’s talents included sewing, crochet, gardening, and ceramics.  She was an active member of Sacred Heart Church for 75 years, a parent volunteer at Sacred Heart School, and a charter member of the Y.L.I. Ave Regina #200, serving terms as secretary, vice president, and president.
Maria was preceded in death by Alfred Jorge, her husband of 51 years, and her son-in-law, Christopher Vaille.  She is survived by her children, James Jorge of Sonora (and daughter-in-law Debra), Loretta Blakeley of Turlock (and son-in-law Patrick), Rebecca Vaille of Modesto, and Susanne Jorge of Turlock; eight grandchildren (Alfre, Tessa, and Chloe Vaille, Adam and Benjamin Jorge, Grayson Blakeley, and Jim and Misti Harrelson); and three great-grandchildren (Mary, Freddie Lynn, and Brooke).  Maria also leaves seven siblings, Mabel Sarmento, Margo Tyree, Louis Almeida, Marvee Andre, Maxine Younger, and Gary Almeida of Turlock, and George Almeida of San Mateo. Remembrances may be made to Sacred Heart School, Turlock. Viewing will be at Allen Mortuary on Sunday, August 4, 2013 from 5:00-7:00p.m. with rosary to follow at 7:00p.m.  Mass will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Monday, August 5, 2013 at 11:00a.m. with burial at Turlock Memorial Park.  Please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com.