In Loving Memory of our

Beloved

Maria Luisa Alvarez

Maria Luisa Alvarez, devoted wife, mom, grandma, hermana, tia, and dear friend to many, passed away on April 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Ciudad Juárez in 1947 and was a longtime El Paso resident. Those who knew Mom, Grandma, Mari, Maria Luisa, or Mrs. Alvarez will remember she lived gratefully, loved her family deeply, and modeled an unshakable faith in her 78 years of life. “Gracias à la Vida” was not only one of her favorite songs, but also a reflection of the life of deep gratitude she led.
 
She was an engaged and devout member of several parish communities, including Nuestra Señora del Carmen in Ciudad Juárez, where she led La Acción Católica in her youth; San Francisco Xavier for more than 20 years; and most recently, St. Anthony’s Seminary. She nurtured a beautiful family and shared a loving marriage of 36 years with her late husband, Juan Jose Alvarez. Her beautiful smile invited joy, her embrace extended warmth, and her heart poured love into all who were fortunate to know her, especially her children.
 
Mamá, tu ausencia deja un vacío inmenso, pero confiamos en que nuestro papá, tu mas gran amor, te ha recibido en el cielo con gran alegría al estar reunidos junto a nuestros seres queridos.
 
She is survived by her daughter Monica Alvarez Velazquez; sons Juan Alvarez and Cecilio Alvarez-Gajewsky; children in-law Martin Velazquez (Monica), Leticia Alvarez (Juan), and David Gajewsky-Alvarez (Cecilio); grandchildren Gabriel Alvarez, Eleanor Velazquez, and Sophia Velazquez; sisters Virginia, Teresa, Martha, Maria Angela and brothers Juan Manuel and Juan Esteban; and beloved nephews, nieces, and family members.
 
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Juan Jose Alvarez; parents, Cecilio and Maria Francisca (Soledad) Jimenez; sisters Cecilia and Rosa Maria; and other cherished family members who are deeply missed.
 
In following her example of generosity, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of El Paso in memory of Maria Luisa Alvarez. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at San Jose Funeral Home at 10950 Pellicano Drive with a Rosary at 5:00 pm. Funeral Mass at 10:00 am, Monday, May 4, 2026 at St. Anthony’s Seminary at 4601 Hastings Drive. Interment will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery. Services under the direction of San Jose Funeral Home-East.