Maye Nizzi Gonzales

Maye Nizzi Gonzales departed this world unexpectedly on January 9, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on August 10, 1933 to Fernando A. Nizzi and Beatrice Gomez Nizzi, she was raised in Albuquerque, NM by her grandmother, Pasqua Nizzi Pillar. It was there that Maye met her future husband, Orlando E. Gonzales (Major General US Army Ret.) of Trinidad, CO. They married on December 26, 1951, embarking on their 64 year partnership.

For 35 years as the devoted wife of a career military officer, Maye navigated the challenges of more than 50 moves during her husband's service. Some of their favorite assignments included their time in Germany, St. Louis, San Francisco, and South Korea. Throughout this time she created a loving home for their family and built lifelong friendships across the globe. After Orlie's retirement they settled in Alexandria, VA, where Maye pursued careers in tax preparation and as a real estate broker for Mount Vernon Weichert Realtors.

Her hobbies included gardening, flower arranging, and various creative endeavors. Most of all, she truly loved reading and was a well-known visitor to the local library. Her interests ranged from current events and history to the more fantastical genres of romance and espionage, making her a lively conversationalist and cherished companion.

Philanthropic initiatives also meant a great deal to her. Over the years she volunteered her time in many ways, including blood drives, military thrift stores, 'rummage' sales, schools, and orphanages. As a member of the League of Women's voters, and as a mother to three daughters, Maye was a fierce supporter of women's rights. She was also involved with several other clubs and organizations that were important to her during the course of her life.

However, nothing was more important to her than her family, and she made it a priority to always be there for her kids and grandkids. She was the ever-present cheerleader at basketball and softball games, recitals and concerts, awards ceremonies and debate tournaments. The ever-willing chauffeur extraordinaire, she would shuttle us to distant schools, jobs, various practices, and rehearsals with endless patience and pride.

Maye is survived by her daughters, Maurina Gonzales and Jema Cooper; son-in-law Mark Cooper; her grandchildren, Laurel Fisher, Alyssa Klinksiek, Matthew Cooper, and Alexandra Cooper; and her great-grandson, Lucius Fisher. She was preceded in death by her husband Orlie, daughter JoAnn Robeson, and parents Fernando and Beatrice.

She will always be remembered for her sharp wit, hearty laughter, and warm generosity. Her unwavering dedication to her family and her vibrant personality will be deeply missed.

A visitation and funeral mass will be held in her honor on Saturday, February 1st, at St. Louis Catholic Church, located at 2907 Popkins Lane, Alexandria, VA, 22306. Visitation will begin at 10 am, followed by a funeral mass at 11 am. The family invites all who knew and loved Maye to join in celebrating her remarkable life.