Less than 48 hours after blowing out the "88" candles on her birthday cake, our mother took her last breath and passed peacefully on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 1:11 PM.

She was radiant and her last words to Billy Monday night were, "Good night, Billy. I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck."

There was so much giggling and shenanigans that for the first time ever, I had to go in at 11:00 PM and say light's out. Diana was teaching my mother Spanish, my mother was teaching Diana English, and Billy was laughing hysterically hearing Diana say, "Buenas noches, Maria".

God's grace was with us all and not surprisingly, when I requested a priest at the hospital to give Last Rites, in walked "Father Bill".

Our mother was truly blessed the past twelve years with many special friends. Our deepest heartfelt gratitude to Carsyn, Jamie, Kathleen, Abby, Lena, Rocio and Diana for the compassionate care they lovingly provided during this journey.