Maria C. Marin Vazquez

Her doctors described her as “a fighter,” and marveled at how she would do better on cognitive tests than many of their much younger patients.

She was loved by all who knew her, and it was common to hear young women call her “Mommy,”and say that they wanted to be just like her when they grew up.

Maria was born in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, but lived most of her life in San Juan, PR and New York City. Having lost her own mother at age six, God and family were the unwavering center of her life.

Maria was predeceased by her loving husband, Alejandro Delgado, a World War II Army veteran, and their son, Alexander. She is survived by her two daughters, Marie and Arlene, five grandchildren, and six great grandchildren.

As Sergeant-at-Arms of the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion (Puerto Rico chapter), Maria had the honor of escorting former U.S. Presidents at the organization’s National Conventions. She laid wreaths for our deceased soldiers and veterans at the U.S. National Cemetery in Bayamón, PR.

She volunteered at soup kitchens, and at the Veterans Hospital in San Juan, PR. She was also a graceful dancer, winning awards with partners half her age into her eighties.

Maria loved to read and to keep up with current events. She enjoyed a good game of dominoes, or trying her hand at the occasional slot machine. She traveled extensively, and credited a visit to the Holy Land for changing her life.

She is buried with her beloved husband, Alejandro, in their native Puerto Rico.