Maria Modesta Herrera

In the song of life, Maria Modesta Herrera was surely the composer. A very observant woman who would rather spend her time creating than talking, Maria preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around her made sense. In fact, she depended on her sensory world to provide her with concrete data. A free spirit, Maria believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. She seemed to know what fit and what didn't’t fit in everything she did. Maria perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to her, yet she lived with a definite sense of purpose. She was a woman who was always ready to share her creations with those around her.

      Maria was born on February 25, 1938 at home in Guadalajara Mx. Her parents were Jose Hernandez and Maria de Jesus Sanchez. Maria was raised in El Grullo Jalisco. As a young child, Maria was optimistic in her outlook. She sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply her creative energies. Maria rarely calling attention to herself, but when she did speak out, her message was clearly understood by those around her.

      Early on in her family relationships, Maria showed that she was a tolerant and flexible person, and she got along fairly well with everyone. She was raised with three siblings. She had One older brother, Vidal Hernandez, And two younger brothers Pedro and Fernando Hernandez. She was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

      As she was growing up, Maria developed into a person who enjoyed physically doing things, and she took pleasure in using her hands in order to create. Whether it was drawing pictures, working with building kits, or even just tapping out a rhythm to play by, Maria liked concrete things. Growing up, Maria took part in horse back riding, and swimming in the river. In her spare time she liked knitting, sewing and making clothes. Maria's memorable achievements included taking care of her brothers starting at the age of five. However, to Maria, the most fun she had was simply playing, and spending time with friends.

      Those who didn't’t know Maria well might not view her as being an outgoing person, those who called her their friend knew differently. Maria was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced her opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that her kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Maria’s, you understood how true a friend she could be. While growing up, some of her best friends were Juventina, Narcisa, Maria and Valvina Hernandez.

      A person who was sensitive to others’ feelings, modest and tolerant, Maria had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned.

      Maria was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to her children. These emotional bonds made her as much playmate as parent. She gave her family unconditional love and kindness, sharing her artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Maria was blessed with nine children, eight girls, Josefina, Angelica, Hilda, Veronica, Elisa, Marisol, Eva, luz and one son Antonio. They were also blessed with fifteen grandchildren and one great grandchild., Nicole, Anthony, Keith , Giselle, Erin, Alan, Paul, Briana, Michelle, Richard, Scotty, Matthew, Charlie, Daniela, Ryan and Chase.

      Maria found ways to enjoy what she did for a living. She worked hard and did her best to succeed every day. Her primary occupation was a homemaker. Maria tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing her will on others.

      Because she loved the world around her, Maria enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for her to kick back and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Maria put her personal trademark on any leisure planning that she undertook. Favorite vacations included visiting Guadalajara, Veracruz, Mazatlan and Las Vegas.

      Maria passed away on January 27, 2015 at home in San Ysidro, CA of pancreatic cancer. She is survived by nine children and her brother Pedro Hernandez. Services were held at Our Lady Mt. Carmel Church. Maria was laid to rest in Mount Hope Cemetery.

      Maria was a good woman, a kind woman, and a practical woman who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. She leaves behind her a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Maria always had much to give and was able to make those connections in her life where her gifts were appreciated. Maria was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Maria Modesta Herrera.