Maria Small

Maria Small, affectionately known as ""Mimi"" passed away peacefully on Monday, February 21, 2011 after a courageous battle of many health issues at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Her family was at her side. She was born on October 5, 1933 in Colombia, South America to the late Marcos Flores and Mercedes Murillo. Maria grew up in Colombia, South America. At the young age of 22, she came to the United States knowing no English. Her father inspired a dream in her about the ""land of opportunity"" and a better life. She proudly became an American citizen, an honor she always treasured. Maria worked hard as a nanny, housekeeper and cook for many years. She married Albert Small in 1965. They later moved to Wilmington with their two sets of twins. Maria was the eternal matriarch. Her strong faith in the Lord guided her life. She was an inspiration to everyone and loved all people. Her genuine happiness was contagious. ""Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same."" She is survived by her children: Anthony Small Misty of Wilmington, Vivian Small Schneider Rick of Greensboro, NC, Imer Small Smith Dennis of Wilmington and Jenel Small Jackson Tom of Wilmington. Maria adored her precious grandchildren: Hali, Hana & Hadyn Small, Ethan & Landon Schneider, Elizabeth, Grayson & Bella Smith and Zack Jackson. She is also survived by her sister, Mercedes Buena hora, as well as cousins, Jose Reuda, Jesus Reuda Abelardo Reuda & their families, all of Colombia, South America, brother-in-law & sister-in-law, Jeff & Eunice Small, of Wilmington, NC. A celebration of life service will be held at College Acres Baptist Church located at 702 Eastwood Rd. on Saturday, February 26, 2011. Visitation with the family will be from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. Afterwards, friends are invited to a reception in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to charities close to Maria's heart: College Acres Baptist Church, 702 Eastwood Rd., Wilmington, NC 28403; American Lung Association, 4006 Oleander Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403, Yahweh Center Children's Village, 5000 Lamb's Path Way, Castle Hayne, NC 28429; Arthritis Foundation, 4530 Park Rd. Suite 230, Charlotte, NC 28209. The family would like to thank all of Maria's doctors for their loving and outstanding care throughout the years. Sincere gratitude goes to Dr. Brian Gilmore, Dr. Catherine Daum, Dr. John Harshbarger, Dr. Charles Biggerstaff, Dr. Nelson Klaus & Dr. Matt Sincock. A sincere thank you to Maria's special caregivers, Mildred Gregory & Brenda Smith, for their many years of dedicated service. John, Erin, Brookes & Kaitlyn Musser, Jim & Joanne Haden, Frances Valdez and Heather Nelson will always be remembered for their love and friendship to Maria's family.