Maria De La Luz Alvarado

Born on February 16, 1969, in Uruapan, Michoacán, Maria was the youngest of eight children and lived a life filled with hope from the start. She came to the States at just six years old and filled her life with dancing, dedication, and family.

That same dedication shaped her path forward, leading her to become a dental hygienist and devote more than 10 years to the profession. In 2010, she was diagnosed with cancer and underwent numerous surgeries and treatments in San Francisco. Her fight, and God's grace, carried her through more than 10 years of remission, during which she became an entrepreneur, hosting yard sales, reselling treasured finds, and creating beautiful custom wreaths under the name Mariposa Wreaths.

Maria filled every room with joy and laughter and was always the first one on her feet to dance. She loved attending country, oldies, and Spanish concerts with friends and loved ones, and was everyone's favorite dance partner. She also treasured getaways with her fiancé, Martin De Leon, whether hiking, a day at the beach, or watching the sunset together.

Maria was a devoted and loving mother to her four children, and an endearing presence to her many nieces and nephews. Her grandchildren lit up her life and held a special place in her heart. She was a warm woman whom her family always found easy to talk to, and will forever be remembered for her spontaneity, enthusiasm, selflessness, and devout faith in God.

Even when the cancer returned, she never stopped enjoying life, laughing with her loved ones, and smiling despite the pain. Through every battle, Maria's strength, faith, and love for her family never wavered. She faced it all with a grace that inspired everyone around her, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, joy, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jose Alvarado; brothers Jose Arturo Alvarado and Luis Manuel Alvarado; and sister Maria Guadalupe Alvarado.

She is survived by her mother, Angelina Alvarado; her fiancé, Martin De Leon; siblings Lulu Alvarado and husband Jose Vargas, Christina Estrada and husband Ruben Estrada, Mary Canizales and husband Jose Canizales, and Gerardo Alvarado; children Andrew Sandoval and wife Cecilia Sandoval, Eric Sanchez, Marissa Sanchez, and Christopher Sanchez; and grandchildren Ezekiel, Lala, and Lola.

Her infectious laughter, warmth, and tenderness will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Maria leaves behind more than memories; she leaves a blueprint for reclaiming power from life's trials through faith and family, a legacy that will live on in everyone she touched.