Magdalena "Maggie" Rivas

She is survived by her children, Cristian Anthony and Kaitlyn Elizabeth Pineda; her sisters, Sonia Elisabeth Rivas and Zuleima Lissette Rivas; and her mother, Ana Dilia Lazo. 

Maggie was, above all else, a fighter. For nearly twenty years she bravely battled lupus, which led to kidney failure and countless medical challenges. Ten years ago, after suffering a hemorrhagic stroke and being given only a 50% chance of survival, Maggie defied every expectation. Through fierce determination, she relearned how to walk and talk, inspiring everyone around her with her strength.

Her resilience was tested again six years ago as her health declined further, with lupus attacking her digestive system and her heart weakened by years of illness. Despite the overwhelming odds, Maggie’s spirit remained unbroken. Her greatest motivation was her deep love for her children, and seeing both of them graduate was one of the proudest moments of her life.

Outside of her medical battles, Maggie found joy in the simple comforts of home, her happy place. She loved politics, shopping on Amazon, cooking, and discovering new finds at Trader Joe’s. She delighted in her favorite treats from Starbucks, Jollibee, and Chick-fil-A, and enjoyed relaxing with reality TV, and her favorite YouTube podcasters, especially Lovely Ti.

Maggie’s life was a testament to courage, resilience, and unwavering love. She fought long and hard, and when her earthly journey grew too heavy, God gently called her home. She loved her children more than anything, and her memory will live on in the lives she touched.

A visitation will be held on November 22, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, located at 186 Shelton Shop Rd, Stafford, Virginia, 22554.

The funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 4:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 5:00 pm, also at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service.