Maria Valeria Hernandez Maya

Maria Valeria Hernandez Maya was born in Michoacán, Mexico, to Amalia Maya and Jose Hernandez. She overcame various obstacles from an early age. Despite her humble beginnings, Maria put herself through school and become a History Professor. While at the same time, she singlehandedly raised seven (7) children and ensured that all had the opportunities she never did. Since she viewed education as the key to success, she made various sacrifices to ensure that all her children pursued higher education. Her hunger for learning never ceased. 

Having experienced firsthand the challenges in Mexico, she wanted more for her children, and in the early 80’s, she moved to Austin, Texas. Once in Austin, she developed a passion for the arts. She published several music compositions that were adopted by local artists. She painted using oil on canvas as her medium and had her work displayed in exhibitions. Maria served as a guest lecturer at Saint Edward's University, played as a movie extra, and taught Spanish. She was awarded a proclamation through the City of Austin proclaiming her birthday, April 28th, as "Maria Hernandez' day." 

As Maria enjoyed life after retirement, she traveled and experienced various cultures, foods, music, and art. Maria loved nature. She loved gardening, trees, plants, and animals. Most of all, she loved people. She loved to laugh and enjoyed joke-telling. She was happiest surrounded by family and friends, often recanting on old memories and adventures.

Maria believed that through God, all things were possible. She had trust that one day, the gates of heaven would open and the Angels would guide her home. She knew that she would rejoice in eternal peace with the Lord and be reunited with those she loved who had passed before her. Maria is survived by her family: Eva, Martha, Fernando, Cindy, Leticia, Reyna, Elena, Ana, Carlos, Antonio, Andrew, Alex, Matthew, Daniel, Fernando T, Luis, Juan, Alberto, Bella, Junior, Luigi and Sammi. 

Maria's legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and everyone whose lives' she touched. 

*****

Maria Valeria Hernandez Maya passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.  

Her Memorial Service will be held at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel on Monday, July 27, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. Following the funeral service, she will be laid to rest at Assumption Cemetery.

Queremos agradecer a todos aquellos miembros de la familia que a lo largo de toda su vida en algún momento le brindaron su apoyo. 

Especialmente, a su yerno Fernando Torres, porque al final de su jornada, nos apoyo de manera inmensurable e invaluable.