Maria Antonia Mendez

Maria was born in Cuba in 1929. She was an elementary school teacher for many years in Cuba. She married Angel Mendez and had two sons. In 1962 she and her family legally emigrated to the United States to escape the communist government that had taken over Cuba. She expressed a great love and appreciation to the United States and became a U.S. Citizen along with her family.

Once in the US, Maria and her family established themselves in Dallas, and within a few years she and her husband Angel opened a Cuban grocery store that became very successful. She showed her sons the importance of hard work, honesty, loyalty, and respect for others. Maria was a strong Christian with a tremendous faith. She cared deeply for her family and always emphasized the importance of a good education to her sons. Her love for music, art, and gardening was something she always enjoyed.

She is survived by her sons: Carlos and Angelo; brother Lino; Daughters-in-law: Karen Mendez and Janine Mendez; Grandchildren: Andrew, Elise, Emily, Zachary, and Melissa; Great-grandchildren: Riley and Harrison; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 2:00pm at Sunset Memorial Park.

In lieu flowers please provide donations to The American Heart Association.