Maria Lopez Torres

Maria was born on October 15, 1947, in Harlingen, Texas, the eldest of five children to Eugenio Lopez and Aurora Zarate. When she was just five years old, her family moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she grew up and spent the rest of her life. She attended Dunbar Elementary School and Phoenix Union High School.

After high school, Maria married Vela Ortiz Torres, and together they raised two sons. A devoted mother, she stayed home during their early years, returning to work once her youngest began first grade. Her first job was as a packing specialist, but determined to support her family more fully, she began a long and successful career at a Motorola company, where she worked for over 20 years and retired as a wafer processor in microchip manufacturing.

Even after retirement, Maria continued working as an overnight stock clerk with Walmart for another 10 years.

Maria was the heart and soul of her family—their matriarch, their strength, and their guide. She led by example, with quiet courage, generosity, and endless patience. She gave her time freely, whether babysitting grandchildren, driving friends and neighbors to appointments, or simply being there when someone needed her.

She had a vibrant spirit and an eye for the little things that brought joy. Maria loved getting her nails done—always choosing a different color depending on what sparked her that day. She enjoyed having her hair done often, always keeping it just the way she liked it. Yet she dressed simply and wore modest, beautiful jewelry that reflected her grace and warmth. In her later years, Maria was lovingly spoiled by her family. Her oldest son made her breakfast every Friday morning and invited the grandchildren over, continuing a tradition inspired by her favorite holiday, Christmas—when she would decorate the house and prepare her signature pancakes and bacon for the whole family.

Maria also enjoyed playing the slots at the casino, tossing in nickels and quarters, and often walking away a winner. She loved doing old-fashioned jigsaw puzzles at the kitchen table, but above all, she found her greatest joy in spending time with her grandchildren.

She also shared a special bond with her beloved cockatiel, Angel, who stayed faithfully by her side.

Maria had a one-of-a-kind personality—witty, strong, and full of surprises. People listened closely because you never knew what clever remark or unexpected one-liner she might say next. She was deeply loved and admired by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Maria leaves behind her oldest son, Alfredo “Fred” Torres, and her youngest son, Juan Torres, and his wife, Priscilla. She is also survived by her siblings: Yoya, Carlos, Val and sister-in-law Jessie. Maria was a proud grandmother to three granddaughters: Marilyn, Isabel, and Leilani. She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law Deniece, her goddaughter Monica, and her cherished nieces and nephews: Carlos Jr., Gino, Sam Jr., Milo, Rene, and Eric.

Maria was greeted in heaven by her beloved parents, Eugenio Lopez and Aurora Zarate, her brother Sam Sr., her sister Margarita, and her loving husband, Vela Ortiz Torres.

Maria Lopez Torres will be deeply missed. Her legacy of love, humor, resilience, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.