Maria Guadalupe Suarez Franco

Born in San Benito, Texas, she was the daughter of Jose Angel Suarez and Ascencion H. Lerma. She attended San Benito High School, where she loved to play the saxophone and was the first in her family to graduate in 1963. During her youth, she worked as a migrant worker in many states. She was employed at various places in her early adult years, such as Zody's, Target, and Pavillions, working as a checker. She also worked for the Ontario/ Montclair School District as an ESL aide. She began college in the early 80's, taking one class at a time, and finally graduated in 1997 at the age of 52! Soon after, she became a teacher for the same school district, teaching third grade. She was loved by all her students and fellow teachers.

She was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Upland, CA, for over 40 years. Some of her hobbies included playing bingo at San Manuel Casino, treasure hunting at various thrift stores, puzzles, and playing board games with her children and grandchildren. She will be remembered for her vibrant personality, contagious laugh, dancing and singing, and her big hair.

She is survived by her husband, Francisco (Frank), son Francisco Jr. (Teresa), of Pella, Iowa, son Carlos (Tracy) of Fontana, daughter Anita Ireta (Horacio) of Oceanside, CA, son Edward (Eunmi) of Rancho Cucamonga, daughter Tina Escudero (Joe) of Fontana, eleven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, four brothers, five sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and nephew, Abel Saucedo.

Maria's life was celebrated by numerous family and friends on June 15th at Stone Funeral Home in Upland. She was then blessed with a mass in her honor at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on June 16th then laid to rest at Bellevue Cemetery in Ontario. Mom was such a beautiful, fun, loving person and will truly be missed by all who knew her.