Maria Alderete

Maria Gayton Alderete, 88, of Taylor, Texas, was born on March 30, 1938, to Benigna Rodriguez Martinez and Jose Gayton. She went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2026. Maria was the eighth of eleven children.

On September 18, 1964, she married the love of her life, Cruz Alderete Jr. Together, they built a beautiful family and were blessed with four daughters: Josie, Nina, Nora, and Christina.

Maria spent most of her working life in the dry-cleaning business before retiring as a custodian from Taylor ISD. For the last 22 years, Maria proudly held the title of matriarch of the family—a position she embraced wholeheartedly. She was the one her family could turn to for love, support, guidance, and, most importantly, prayer. She loved her family deeply and made sure each member knew they were loved.

Maria had a special love for animals, watching Westerns, football, and Lifetime movies. She especially enjoyed going places with her grandchildren and making memories with them. And if you knew Maria, you knew she never missed an opportunity to debate absolutely everything with them. Those debates, along with her quick wit and sarcasm, will be some of the memories her family treasures most.

Maria was known for her strong faith, her loving heart, her generous spirit, and, without a doubt, her unforgettable wit and sarcasm. She had a way of making people laugh, speaking her mind, and letting you know exactly what she thought. Her presence brought strength, love, and personality to her family, and she will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish her memory include one sister, two brothers, four daughters, thirteen grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Maria's greatest legacy is the family she loved so fiercely and the faith, love, prayers, and memories she leaves behind. Though she is no longer with us, her love will continue to live on in every generation of her family.