Maria Dolores Sanabria

Maria Dolores Sanabria, affectionately known as “Cookie” to her loved ones, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, at the age of 81. A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, veteran, and woman of deep faith, Cookie lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and unwavering love. She resided in Middleburg, Florida, where she continued to touch lives with her kindness and generosity.

Born on December 8, 1944, in Puerto Rico, Cookie moved with her family to New York City in 1948. She grew up in Brooklyn and graduated from Bushwick High School before going on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Queens College. Her education marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to helping others and making a difference.

After graduating, Cookie served as a probation officer for the State of New York for 20 years, dedicating herself to guiding youth toward better futures with both strength and compassion. In 1967, she married Ali Ansari. Although their marriage did not last, it brought into her life her greatest joy—her beloved daughter, Leyla Ansari, born on August 9, 1972.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, Cookie began a new chapter in her 40s by joining the United States Air Force as a reservist. Through dedication and perseverance, she rose to the rank of Captain in the Medical Corps. While serving, she pursued her calling in healthcare, becoming a nurse, going on to work for the Jacksonville Naval hospital as a charge nurse for 22 years. She cared for others with the same warmth and devotion that defined her life. She proudly served her country during the Bosnian War and Operation Desert Storm before retiring from the Air Force.

Faith was at the center of Cookie’s life. She was a devoted member of Saint Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, where she was known as a prayer warrior. She prayed faithfully for those in need, especially the sick, and was always ready to offer comfort, support, or a helping hand. Her open heart extended beyond her immediate family, leading her to embrace her adopted grandchildren with the same love and care she gave to all.

Cookie’s generosity also took form through her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, where she helped build homes alongside young people, sharing not only her time and labor but also her wisdom, encouragement, and belief in giving back. She found deep purpose in these moments—working hand in hand with others to create safe and loving spaces for families in need.

Cookie found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments—praying, cooking meals for loved ones, engaging in charitable work, and sharing laughter over games of Parcheesi with family. Her home was a place of warmth, welcome, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pablo & Maria Torres.

Cookie is survived by her loving daughter, Leyla Ansari-Cruz, and her son-in-law, Raymond Cruz; her cherished grandson, Carlos Burgos; her adopted grandchildren, Christopher, Aranza, and Naomi Ambriz; and her dear sister, Nilda Aminzadeh. Her legacy lives on through each of them and the countless lives she touched.

A viewing will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hardage - Giddens Holly Hill Funeral Home, 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL 32068. A Catholic Mass will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, 1649 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL. Burial to follow the mass at Holly Hill Memorial Park.

Cookie’s life was a testament to faith, service, and love. She gave selflessly, prayed deeply, and loved fully. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit continues to shine in the hearts of all who knew her. Her story does not end here—it lives on in every life she shaped, every heart she lifted, and every memory that continues to bring a smile through tears.