Maria Leon June 19, 1941 – December 19, 2023

Maria Leon, known to many as “Abuela ” for her iconic red hair and timeless elegance, passed away on December 19, 2023, at the age of 82. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and boundless creativity that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mariam was born on June 19, 1941, and throughout her life, she demonstrated remarkable strength and unwavering dedication to her family and her community. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Isabel and Marilyn, and her son, Julio, who were the pride and joy of her life.

One of Maria’s most significant achievements was her work as a teacher, where she specialized in helping autistic children and teaching them. Her patience and deep empathy, born from her own experiences raising a child with cerebral palsy, allowed her to forge profound connections with the children she taught. Maria’s love and devotion to her daughter with special needs, whom she cared for until her passing, inspired her to make a difference in the lives of other children facing similar challenges. Maria’s devotion extended beyond her children and into her role as a loving and dedicated wife to her husband, Sacaria Leon. When he faced health challenges, including his last stroke, Maria’s unwavering commitment shone brightly. She lovingly cared for him, tending to his every need, whether it was feeding him with tender care, ensuring his comfort, assisting with bathing, or meticulously choosing his clothing. Her compassion knew no bounds, and she provided him with the utmost support and love during his times of vulnerability. Maria’s selflessness and dedication in caring for her husband were emblematic of her nurturing nature and her profound love for her family. Her legacy of compassion and kindness will forever inspire those who were fortunate to witness her unwavering love and care for her loved ones.

Maria’s artistic talents knew no bounds. She had a gift for creating beauty with her hands, whether it was sewing clothing, crafting intricate artworks, or providing creative input for her granddaughter Danielle’s inventions. She brought creativity and joy into the lives of those around her. She also had a passion for decorating for every holiday whether it was to bring happiness to her own children or her children in the classroom. Her ultimate goal was to bring happiness to those around her. 

In addition to her dedication to her family and her craft, Maria was known for her eloquence and grace. She always presented herself with class and elegance, earning her a reputation for timeless fashion and beauty that belied her age. Her iconic red hair and impeccable style were a source of inspiration to many, as was her kind and generous spirit.

Maria’s memory will be cherished by her loving family, including her devoted daughter Isabel, her son Julio, Husband Sacaria Leon, and her granddaughter Danielle Mazzarella. She is also loved by numerous friends and loved ones who were touched by her warmth and kindness.

A celebration of Maria’s life will be held on December 26, 2023, at 12:00 PM. Friends and family are invited to join in remembering the remarkable woman who brought love, beauty, and inspiration to the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to [Charity or Cause] in Maria’s memory.

Maria Leon will be dearly missed but will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her. She was a blossoming flower who made the hearts of everyone she touched blossom. May she rest in eternal peace.

 

 

(Isabel – Daughter) 

Madre mía. Cómo enfrentar la muerte, nada más complicado que aceptar la realidad. Una realidad cruda y devastadora. Sabemos que el Creador es perfecto y que perecer no significa dejar de existir, porque mantener a nuestros seres queridos en nuestros pensamientos los hace inmortales. Mi madre vivió una vida útil y ejemplar. Hoy le digo adiós, no madre mía, hasta luego, hasta que el Gran Arquitecto del Universo nos vuelva a reunir. Tu hija, Dra. M. Isabel León.

 

(Sacaria Leon – Husband)

Mi esposa de 62 años, la vida no me enseñó a vivir sin ti. Gracias por construir una familia conmigo. No tengo cómo agradecerte todo lo que hiciste por mí. Vivirás por siempre en mi corazón.

(Julio – son)

“Vieja” term of endearment, not because she was old but it meant mom to me. I had never had anyone so interested in my life and in my well-being. She always defended me and in her eyes I could never do wrong. She was our family’s warrior, always looking out for us and worrying about what was going on in our life’s. Her years of life and hard work had brought her wisdom and somehow she would guide and show me what life had taught her. I know I will miss her but for me she is not gone. I choose to believe that she is on vacation with my grandmother ” Conrada “her sister “Tomasita”and my other sister “Lily “. Someday we’ll be together again. Thank you Vieja. Without you I would have not made it this far in my life. You did a great job. Love you always Julito.

 

(Daniel Mazzarella – son in law)

She was a kind and amazing woman who I will never forget. I still have the mark on my arm from when I would make her malanga and I got burned. But I would do it all over again because she is worth it. She treated me as if I was her own son and for that I am forever grateful. May she rest in peace. 

 

(Sandro – son in laws brother) 

She was a loving and kind woman who loved when I brought her fish that I caught.