Maria Elena Banda, age 70, passed away on October 18, 2026. Born July 31, 1956, Maria Elena was beloved and cherished by those who knew her, remembered for a gentle spirit, a kind heart, and a steady patience that made others feel at ease. With compassion and thoughtfulness, she had a gift for listening—someone people could truly talk with—and her selfless care left a lasting mark on family and friends alike. Her resilience and generous nature were evident in the quiet ways she showed up for others, again and again. She also found simple joys in life: cheering for her football team, the Arizona Cardinals, enjoying shopping, and appreciating the beauty of flowers—especially roses.
Maria Elena is survived by her daughter, Veronica M. Banda Grado of Phoenix; two grandchildren, Leticia M. Grado-Velasco and Marc A. Grado-Velasco; and her siblings, Max Banda Jr. of Coolidge, Juan Manuel Banda of Chicago, Rosie Anzaldo of Eloy, Maria Valisto of Casa Grande, Jose Luis Banda of Casa Grande, and Jose Anhil Banda of Casa Grande.
She was preceded in death by her father, Max H. Banda; her mother, Maria Elisa C. Banda; and her siblings, Seferino Banda, Francisco J. Banda, and Jesse C. Banda.
Visitation will be held at J. Warren Funeral Services Valley Chapel, 601 North C St., Eloy, AZ 85131, on October 30, 2026, from 9:00 am to 9:30 am.
A Prayer Service will follow at J. Warren Funeral Services Valley Chapel, 601 North C St., Eloy, AZ 85131, on October 30, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am.
A Committal Service will take place at Eloy Memorial Park, 5839 E Milligan Rd, Eloy, AZ 85131, on October 30, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.
