Maria Gonzalez

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Maria Gonzalez, age 91, on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Born on April 6, 1933, in Holguín, Holguín Province, Cuba, Maria was the cherished matriarch of the Gonzalez family. She moved to the United States, where she spent the remainder of her life, surrounded by her loving family and friends who adored her.

Maria was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gilberto Gonzalez. She is survived by her two children, Marilyn and Eduardo; her seven grandchildren, Hector, Janet, Alberto Jr., Melissa, Ely, Tyler, and Eddy; and her six great-grandchildren, Elistolier Amaru, Desiderio Jose, Samantha, Manny Jr., Isabella, and Max. She devoted her life to loving and supporting her family, leaving a legacy of unwavering generosity and a big heart that touched everyone she met.

Maria and Gilberto loved traveling the world together, with treasured trips to Europe, Mexico, and South and Central America. One of Maria's greatest joys was taking her grandchildren to Disney World, creating magical memories they would cherish forever. On her last trip to Disney World at age 89, she enjoyed her favorite rides at Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Her eldest grandson, Hector fondly recalls spending a night with her at the Contemporary Hotel watching the movie "Coco” in Spanish.

Maria had a sweet tooth, with a particular fondness for Malta with condensed milk. She loved making Cuban coffee for visitors and always kept her refrigerator stocked with ice cream. Her grandchildren eagerly anticipated her delicious homemade desserts. Maria cherished her time with her family. Her husband, Gilberto, would come home for a home-cooked lunch and a nap before returning to work in the afternoon. She also valued long, heartfelt conversations on the phone with her loved ones, often lasting late into the night.

She had a special way of bringing joy to her family through stories and games. Maria would enchant her grandchildren with fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood or play tic-tac-toe while waiting for Abuelo Gilberto to return home.

Known for her graceful presence and impeccable sense of style, Maria took great pride in always looking her best. She epitomized femininity, and her beauty was matched only by her kindness. Maria also loved creating one-of-a-kind clothes, shoes, and Halloween costumes for her grandchildren.

Maria’s love for her family knew no bounds, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of kindness, warmth, and love will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and everyone whose life she touched.

A visitation for Maria will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm at Caballero Rivero Little Havana, 3344 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135. A burial will take place on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 10:00 am at Caballero Rivero Woodlawn North, 3260 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135.

Maria’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who loved her.