Maria Carmen Wheeler - Corral

Maria Carmen Wheeler-Corral, a larger-than-life personality, passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of 85. Born in 1939, in Zaragoza, Spain, she was the eldest daughter of Mariano Guillen Alastuey and Consuelo Guillen Alastuey. From the very beginning, Maria exuded a vibrant spirit that captivated everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Maria’s vivacity was contagious. She had an uncanny ability to turn the mundane into something fun, whether through her infectious laughter, her radiant smile, or her uncanny knack for making everyone feel like they belonged and should partake in everything. Her presence was electric—she didn’t just live life; she infused it with passion and purpose.

Maria moved to the United States without knowing the English language but that was not an obstacle. It was simply a new door to walk through. She learned English by first watching TV shows and subsequently by reading and through trial and error. She soon became a US citizen and flourished from there.

Maria's life was a celebration of hard work, resilience, and joy. She relished travel, food, movies, wine, music and dancing. In addition, her professional career spanned more than 25 years at American Express and was marked by her determination, focus on details and sharp intellect. After retiring from American Express, her unstoppable energy found a new outlet as she joined ASU West, where she thrived for another decade.

Never one to be confined by a single role, Maria embraced every chapter of her life with enthusiasm. She married Guadalupe Humberto Corral in 1999, embarking on a journey of love, laughter, and mutual support that enriched both of their lives.

Maria’s family was her pride and joy. Her love and devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were unmatched. Her dynamic personality made her the heart of family gatherings, where her sharp humor and energy always kept everyone entertained.

She is survived by her husband Humberto; her son and daughter-in-law, Roy L. Wheeler, Jr. and Marcelina Wheeler; her daughter and son-in-law, Maria E. Hefley and Joe Hefley; and her sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and Jim Vacco.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren—Ezekiel Cole (Randee Braham) Wheeler, Joshua Ty Wheeler, Joe B. (Lindsae) Hefley, and Amber M. (Zachary) Monroy—and her eight great-grandchildren: Senna Braham Wheeler, Ilaria Rose Wheeler, Zaylie Monroy, Jaxden Hefley, Asher Monroy, Zophie Monroy, Arthur Monroy, and Radley Hefley.

A proud resident of Glendale, Arizona, Maria leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unforgettable memories. Her family, friends, and all who knew her will forever cherish the joy she brought into their lives. Maria Carmen Wheeler-Corral: a woman whose spirit could not be contained, and whose love will never be forgotten.