Maria Teresa Solares

October 20, 1968 – July 5, 2026

Maria Teresa Solares, 57, passed away in her home on July 5, 2026, leaving behind a family who will forever cherish her love, strength, and unwavering devotion.

Born on October 20, 1968, in El Jaguey, Durango, Mexico, Teresa later made her home in South Phoenix, Arizona, where she built a life centered on family, hard work, and community.

On January 8, 1987, Teresa married the love of her life, Ruben Solares Sr. Together they built nearly 40 years of marriage rooted in love, support and commitment. One of Teresa’s favorite stories to tell was when they first met while working together at Burger King. Reminding everyone that life’s greatest blessings sometimes begin in the most unexpected places.

She was a Finance Specialist for Riverside School District for many years. Her knowledge in finance and support helped build and sustain for 43 years and counting, a successful family business, Solares Tire Inc.

Teresa understands the value and significance of being present. She was deeply involved in her children’s schools throughout their upbringing, watching over them while working at C.J. Jorgensen Elementary, generously volunteering her time and supporting school activities. She dedicated much of her young life to raising her children, balancing a full-time career with the endless responsibilities of motherhood. Whether she was taking them to school, practices, sporting events, and after-school activities, helping with homework, preparing meals, or keeping the household running; she always showed up. Her unwavering support and countless sacrifices shaped the lives of her children and reflected the true meaning of love and being present.

She found joy in gardening, shopping, caring for her plants, bringing her family together, singing and dancing while cleaning the house. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, where she lovingly prepared meals that became family traditions. She will always be remembered for her famous spaghetti and enchilada sauce, dishes her family eagerly looked forward to and that will forever remind them of her love.

Teresa’s warmth, and humor brought laughter to those around her. She would often wake her family by saying “Wake up, time to make the donuts,” and teasing her granddaughter with, “Savannah, go in the store with your Tata so he doesn’t find a girlfriend.” These little moments perfectly captured her joy and wit.

Teresa is survived by her devoted husband, Ruben Solares Sr.; her children, Ruben Jr., Victor, Raquel, and Adrian; her beloved grandchildren, Savannah, Francisco, and Josiah; her mother Maria and younger siblings Lorena, Sylvia, Marisela, Alonzo, Rigo and Efrain; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by her kindness, generosity, and love.

She taught her family the importance of hard work, compassion, and always showing up for the people you love. Though she will be deeply missed, her love will continue to live on in every family gathering, every shared meal, every blooming garden, and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Her greatest legacy is the family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched simply by being there.