Alfred Amaral Pereira, 85, of Carteret, NJ, passed away peacefully at home in Toms River, NJ, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 18, 1939, in Carregal do Sal, Portugal, Alfred immigrated to the United States in 1969 with his beloved wife and children, seeking a better life for his family.

Alfred worked for 20 years at the U.S. Metal Copper Refinery in Carteret. Following the closing of the refinery, he became the proud owner of Maria's Portuguese Bar & Restaurant, where he shared his love of Portuguese cuisine and culture with the community. In the 1980s, Alfred founded both youth and adult travel soccer programs in Carteret, dedicating his time and energy to nurturing a love for the sport. He took great pride in the players and the teams he helped build.

Alfred enjoyed life to the fullest—especially spending time dining and dancing with family and friends. He faced the challenges of Parkinson's disease with strength and grace, spending the last two years of his life under hospice care at home, surrounded by those who loved him most.

He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Maria Eduarda Pereira, and his parents, Alexandre Antunes Pereira and Maria Deolinda Coelho Amaral.

Alfred is survived by his children: Ana Goodwin; Paul Pereira and his wife, Bonnie; and Elizabeth Lowrance and her husband, Herb. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Kristie Kuhl, Kyle Goodwin, Mia Pereira, and Lexi Pereira; and great-grandchildren Aidyn Brzezicki and Riley Kuhl.

Alfred will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a service in the Woodbridge Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel on Tuesday, May 20th at 10 a.m.