She lived in Spain until the age of 6, at which time her family emigrated to Havana, Cuba, fleeing the Spanish Civil War. The family emigrated to the United States in October 1962, fleeing the Communist dictatorship of Fidel Castro. The family settled in Charlotte after a brief stay in Miami and moved to Harrisburg in the late 1980s.
During her active years, Maria was involved with the Home Extension Club of Cabarrus County and taught Sunday school. She was married to Gonzalo Fernando Martinez on October 3, 1952.
Maria is survived by her twin sister, Maria De Jesus Garcia; her son, Gonzalo Martinez; daughter, Teresita Staub (Mike); six grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sister, Maria De Los Angeles Garcia.
A Funeral Liturgy will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 4th at Harry & Bryant Funeral Home, 500 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC. A visitation will be held prior at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Charlotte Memorial Gardens, 7632 Hood Road, Charlotte, NC.