Maria Esther Medina

Maria was born on October 23, 1942, in Sancti Spíritus, Cuba, where she developed a lifelong love of music and became a professor of piano. After immigrating to the United States, Maria began a new chapter of her life, where she met the love of her life, her late husband, Pedro Pablo Medina. Their love story began in the simplest and most unexpected way. One day, Pedro brought a box of pizza over to their apartment complex. Maria happened to ask him for a slice, and that small request became the beginning of a relationship that would grow into a lifetime of love, family, and memories. From that first slice of pizza, their story continued to unfold. After enduring one Chicago winter, Maria and Pedro made their way to sunny Florida, closer to their native homeland and the warmth they both loved. They were married for fifty years, and their unwavering love was the foundation upon which their family was built.

Maria possessed a feisty, spirited personality that made her unforgettable. She was strong-willed, passionate, and never one to give up on what she believed in. She carried that determination throughout her life and passed that strength on to her children and grandchildren. Yet beneath her fiery spirit was an enormous heart and an unwavering belief in God and the importance of family.

Maria believed that the bond of a family was one of the most beautiful things a person could experience in life. She made sure that no one felt forgotten, overlooked, or less important. Birthdays were never simply birthdays in Maria’s home. There was always a cake, pastries, something sweet, and a celebration waiting for everyone. She had a special way of making everyone feel seen and loved. For her grandchildren, Maria created countless memories that will be cherished for generations. One of her most memorable traditions was leaving a bright lipstick kiss on each of their cheeks. They became a small but lasting symbol of the affection she gave so freely.

She was an accomplished piano professor, a poet, a photographer, and a lover of animals. Maria also had a remarkable appreciation for preserving the moments she loved. She took countless photographs, capturing birthdays, holidays, family gatherings, milestones, and ordinary days that became extraordinary simply because her family was together. In many ways, it was as though Maria never wanted to forget the things that brought her the greatest happiness: her family, her faith in God, and her community. Because of the photographs she took, her family now has a lifetime of memories to look back upon and stories to share.

A devote Catholic, Maria was an active member of her church and participated in many church-related activities throughout her life. Her faith was an important part of who she was. She believed deeply in God and carried her faith with her throughout every chapter of her life.

Above all else, Maria will be remembered for the love she poured into the people around her. She taught her family that life is meant to be celebrated, that traditions matter, and that memories should be treasured. She is survived by her two children, Teresita DeJesus Morel and Pedro Lazaro Medina (Heather); her five cherished grandchildren, Michael Anthony Morel, Peter Douglas Morel, Victoria Marie Morel, Piper Grace Medina, and Lilly Marie Medina; and many other beloved family members and friends.

A memorial and burial service will take place at Quattlebaum Funeral, Cremation, and Event Center, 6411 Parker Avenue, West Palm Beach, FL 33405, on August 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.