Maria L. Jimenez

Born on September 9, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Maria was the beloved daughter of Luis Vasquez and Aurora Esquivel. She was raised in a close-knit family and educated at Holy Redeemer in Detroit, where she graduated and began shaping the values that would guide her throughout her life—faith, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Maria dedicated many years of her professional life to Southwestern Bell, retiring after a successful career as a phone technician. Yet it was her tireless civic engagement that became her legacy. A lifelong Democrat, Maria devoted herself wholeheartedly to democratic politics and labor advocacy. She was a proud member of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) for over 50 years, served three terms as Vice President of the AFL-CIO, and faithfully represented her community as a precinct chair for more than a decade. In recognition of her steadfast commitment and leadership, she was honored by the Travis County Democratic Party.

Maria’s passion for democracy extended well beyond local involvement. She eagerly volunteered on political campaigns, attended national conventions, and proudly served as a delegate in 2004 and 2008. She believed deeply in the power of participation and worked tirelessly to ensure every voice was heard. Beyond her advocacy, Maria found joy in volunteering, reading, and traveling.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Luis Vasquez and Aurora Esquivel, and her eldest sister, Aurora Cash.

She is survived by her loving sisters, Rosalinda Gonzalez and Alicia Del Rio; her nieces and nephews, Cristina Cash Litten, William Cash, Cindy Cash-Depaulis, Ivett Gonzalez Abrego, Brenda Gonzalez Serna, and Hector Mario Gonzalez; and her cherished grand-nieces and grand-nephews, Miguel, Alexandra, Erica, Monica, Mark, Anthony, Jesus, Francesca, Ana Dani, Andrea, Diego, and Regina, as well as several great-great-grand nieces and nephews, and Pixie, the family dog who brought her constant comfort.

Maria will be remembered as a devoted sister and aunt, a steadfast advocate, and a woman of principle whose life’s work made her community stronger and more just.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Travis County Democratic Party or to the charity of your choice.

A visitation will be held at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, located at 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704, on January 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will take place at the same venue on January 9, 2026, from 5:45 pm to 6:30 pm.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 12:00pm at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, located at 2620 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78704.