Maria spent her life as a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.  In her younger years Maria held multiple titles as a Pageant Queen. She loved dancing, cooking, bowling, caring for her pets and sharing stories & jokes with her loved ones.  During her working years, she was a fierce entrepreneur, owning and operating several businesses; a daycare and tavern to name a few.  She was also a real estate investor.  Maria was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

She is survived by two daughters:  Marilou Alvarez-Todd of Tacoma, Washington and Catherine Alvarez-Sauerzopf of Woodinville, Washington; two granddaughters:  Keisha Hall and Ilaya Roberts; eight great grandchildren:  Andrew Townsend, Jr., Xavia Hall, Lauren Roberts, Justin Roberts, Jr., Rue Roberts, Izaiah Roberts, Kingston Roberts, and Santino Collier;  one great great grandchild:  Rain Townsend; a granddaughter-in-law:  Denice Roberts of Spanaway, Washington; cousin:  Markie Garner of Lamont, Oklahoma and a host of other relatives and many good friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; and one grandson:  Justin Roberts.

A memorial service is planned for May.