Maria Alfaro, age 91, formerly of Pico Rivera, California passed peacefully into Heavenly Glory on Sunday, April 2, 2017 to begin her new life, forever with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She has now been joyfully reunited with her parents Elvira and Manuel Alfaro, her four sisters Cleotilde Olivarri, Lucille Alfaro, Nazaria Cavner, Concepcion Schendal and two brothers Fidencio and Manuel Alfaro who preceded her in Christ.

Maria was born on December 10, 1925 in Graytown, Texas.

She is survived by her loving sister Elvira Sánchez and numerous nieces and nephews.

Maria loved to knit and took pride in gifting her loved ones with lovely blankets for birthdays and at Christmas time. She enjoyed traveling, playing bingo, arts and crafts and spending time with her family.

She collected Christmas decorations her entire life and had an extensive collection of an antique Christmas village, hand made decorations and ornaments.

She proudly displayed them throughout her home during the holidays.

Maria was a spiritual woman and loved to read her bible, praying for and with others. She truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; chatting with friends and family, snacking, enjoying each day with gratitude.

She was fortunate enough to take part in the Games for Life in 2013 & 2014.

At 88 years old she competed in the Throwing 50', Wheelchair Dash, and Balloon Volleyball. Taking home medals and first place ribbons in sculpture, arts and crafts.  She was delighted when her team the Warriors took home the first place trophy for overall team points.

She was genuinely a loving and caring person, devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend, always thinking of others first. 'To know her was to really love her'. She will be immensely missed.

Funeral services were held at 3 pm on Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at St. Mary's University, Assumption Chapel, One Camino Santa Maria in San Antonio, TX with Father Sean Downey, S.M. officiating.

(With interment to follow at Rose Hills Memorial Park, Whittier, California.)

A reception was held immediately following the service were friends and family gathered for fellowship.