Maria Luisa Ruiz Garcia

Maria Luisa Ruiz Garcia was a loving mother, sister, grandmother and friend. She was born on January 5, 1932 in Riviera, TX, and died on November 3rd, 2020 at 88 years old. Her life was fulfilled by adventure, love and servitude to God.

She was a lifelong educator, beginning at the age of 19 in her hometown and continued teaching for another 40 years until she retired from Cedar Hills Elementary in Jacksonville. Her relationship and dedication to faith also began at an early age. Outside of the daily penitential duties, she would exhibit true leadership to become president of the women’s guild at St. Matthew’s Church and Chairwomen of the Women’s Bereavement Circle. Her grandfather built the town church where she married her late husband Daniel Garcia. The two were introduced at a dance by her sister, Chepa. They would go on to spend the next 58 years together and create a family surrounded by love, forgiveness and passion for education.

Maria is survived by her 4 children, Sarah, Danny, Martha, Shirley and her 5 grandchildren. She prioritized her responsibilities with dignity and did not sacrifice her kindness or willingness to help those in need. Maria was a spirited storyteller who lived to make the world a better place for her grandchildren.

A service will be led by Father Luke McLoughlin at St. Matthews Catholic Church on Tuesday, November 10th at 11:00A EST.

Floral arrangements should be directed to