A tribute to my mother:

I’m honored to speak about my mother, Maria Suarez—a steady, gentle light in this world. Anyone who knew her felt that light: unconditional, forgiving, and full of grace. Her faith in people, in God, and in her archangels never wavered.

My earliest memories are the ones I hold closest—being carried in her arms as she watered her flowers, or falling asleep to the sound of her blow‑drying my hair before school. Her love lived in those quiet, everyday moments.

She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, poured creativity into her work, and cared deeply for her staff. But her greatest devotion was to her children. She showed love with her hands—sewing quilts and clothes, making Raggedy Ann dolls, and baking her famous carrot‑cake loaves for the people she cherished.

She was a storyteller, writing poems and short stories filled with hope. And she was a fighter. As a young woman, she stood for equity and cultural pride through MEChA. When a drunk driver took her teenage son, grief broke her—but she turned that pain into purpose. As president of MADD, she carried his memory into every act of advocacy.

She loved beauty—her nails, her hair, and always her red lipstick, her signature touch of confidence and joy.

I carry regret for the ways my choices affected her, but even more, I carry gratitude. These last three and a half years with her were a gift. I won the gene‑pool lottery having her as my mother. She was my best friend and the love of my life.

Mom in Germany sporting a "Sabino" sweatshirt.

Enrique Suarez (deceased), Mona (me), Sabino Enrique Suarez (deceased). I carry you all  in my spirit every day. Sabino, now take Momma’s hand and guide her gently into the light. The bond we share moves beyond this world—if I found you once in this universe, I will find you again.
With a heavy heart,  
 Mona

Joe and I are so sad we can't be at the funeral. A great memory for me is when she was still married to my brother and I had just married Joe. We both lived in Sunset Heights  and she had me over for dinner.  She then proceeded to show me how make Flan. I was in awe of all the steps it took. I always had great respect for her. She was a loving person.  Mona,  we will always be here for you.

Ill never forget all the fun times we had together.  She would take me to work with her and we would just do all kinds of things there. Getting our nails done and going out to eat every time I was in town.  I will miss your beautiful smile and laugh. Love you always.

I will always cherish the time Maria and I shared together. We enjoyed getting our nails done and having lunch together. Her words of wisdom will always hold a special place in my heart.

 Tribute to Mary Suarez ISC
Mary Suarez ISC was a rare light — steady, generous, and deeply human. For nearly 50 years, I had the privilege of knowing her in roles that evolved as beautifully as she did: first as my Supervisor at the El Paso Community College Valle Verde campus, and later as Peer ISC Manager. 

I never called her simply “Mary.” To me she was always Marietta or Mary Suarez ISC — a name that became a loving inside joke. Her little ones, Mona and Sabino, would frequently call the office asking for “Mary Suarez ISC,” and of course we all knew exactly who was on the other end of the line. That name became part of her story, part of her warmth, part of the way she lived her life with humor and heart.

Mary was guided by a deep instinct for the well-being of others. She sensed when someone was unwell, when spirits were low, when a quiet prayer or a comforting word could make a difference. Her empathy was a component of her daily actions. She carried patience like a gift she freely gave, and she offered comfort with a sincerity that made you feel seen. And who could ever forget those incredible massages!

Her laughter, her kindness, her unwavering compassion — these are the things that will echo in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Sleep peacefully, Mary Suarez ISC. You are loved, and you will be missed more than words can hold.

With love dear friend,
Elda 

My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Mona and family.

We have lost someone truly special to us. Mona, you have my deepest condolences for your loss. She was a great woman to be admired. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

This was taken on April 11, 2008, and it was at a Years of Service Recognition  luncheon.

Yaya, the chow‑chow puppy, Sabino, and Mom in her beloved rollers.

Mom and me at my UT Austin graduation — proud day for both of us.

From l to r: Martha Mench, Ida Trompeter, Maria Berta Suarez, Guadalupe Najera Vargas, Dona Petra Teran, Jerry Vargas, Frank Vargas

OBITUARY

Maria Berta Suarez

March 1, 1946 – May 5, 2026

Funeraria del Angel Central

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