Maria Fe Contreras, a cherished and devoted administrative assistant, passed away on May 18, 2026, in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Born Maria Fe Leachon on June 17, 1935, she dedicated twenty-five years of her life to the Prudential Insurance Company, retiring in 1997 after a career marked by steadfast commitment and professionalism.

Maria’s life was a tapestry of loving family, treasured traditions, and joyful pastimes. She took great pride in her heritage, a testament to the strength and perseverance she shared with her late husband, Romeo E. Contreras, to whom she was married for 67 years. Together, they bravely immigrated to the United States carrying little more than hope and determination. Through tireless effort, they built a secure and comfortable home in Fort Lee, New Jersey, where their family flourished. Their pride extended to raising five children, bringing them to America once a stable foundation was established.

Her love for family was unmistakable, embracing her children—Marissa Viray (daughter) and Richard (predeceased spouse), Jourdan Contreras (son) and Beth (spouse), Ajie Stabile (daughter) and Danny (spouse), Sue Dawidowicz (daughter) and Joe (spouse), and Roy Contreras (son) and Lori Huntoon (partner)—as well as her cherished grandchildren Reese and Waneta Viray (spouse), Justin and Rachel Contreras, Alexa (Isaac Schuman, fiancé) and Joseph Stabile, and Ethan Dawidowicz. Maria also delighted in the presence of her great-grandson, Leo Viray. While she is survived by this devoted circle, Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Romeo Contreras, her father Emilio Leachon, her mother Maria Leachon (nee Lausin), and her siblings Paul, Emilio, Elizabeth, and Antonio Leachon.

Maria’s passion for life was expressed in countless ways. She loved shopping on Fifth Avenue in New York City and treasured serene days at the beach in Long Beach Island. Her fondness for family cruises and vacations to their time share in Orlando, Florida, where Disney World stood as a favorite destination, brought her much joy. Even in her later years, her spirit remained bright, with enthusiastic visits to Atlantic City’s boardwalk and casinos—a pastime that never failed to light up her eyes.

A devout Catholic, Maria found solace and strength in her faith, praying the Rosary to St. Jude daily. Her interests extended to an appreciation for music, particularly that of Engelbert Humperdinck; she delighted in singing along and watching game shows such as Wheel of Fortune, The Price Is Right, and Jeopardy. The Golden Girls reruns also held a special place in her heart, reflecting a warmth and humor that colored her personality.

Maria Fe Contreras will be remembered not only for her many accomplishments and her hardworking spirit but for the deep love she had for her family and also radiated to all who knew her. 

Family, friends, and community will gather to honor her memory with a visitation at Frank Patti & Kenneth Mikatarian Funeral Home, 327 Main St, Fort Lee, New Jersey, on May 26, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. A Mass will be celebrated at St. John R. C. Church, Harrison Street, Leonia, New Jersey, starting at noon, followed by interment at Madonna Cemetery, 2070 Hoefleys Lane, Fort Lee, at 1:00 p.m.

Maria’s legacy of perseverance, faith, and love will endure through those she leaves behind, a profound testament to a life well-lived and deeply cherished.