Maria Francisco

Maria Jacinta "Maja" Francisco (née Fernandez), 90, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, in Anaheim, California.

Born on March 4, 1934, in Manila, Maria's early years were shaped by both academic ambition and historical events. She began her education at Santa Catalina College but had to pause her studies when World War II disrupted life in the Philippines. After the war, she resumed her education at Holy Ghost and later attended the University of Santo Tomas (UST). Though she initially aspired to become a doctor, her path led her to Francisco College of Law, where she studied pre-law and met the love of her life, Gustavo "Gus" Francisco. She later returned to UST and earned a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts.

Maria was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. To her children, she was simply "Ma," to her grandchildren "Lola," and to those closest to her, she was affectionately known as "Maja." Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith defined her life. A devout Catholic, she dedicated time to teaching Catechism in public schools and remained deeply involved in her faith community throughout her life.

Beyond her devotion to family and faith, Maria led a vibrant and accomplished life. As a young woman, she graced beauty pageants with elegance and charm. She was crowned Miss Francisco College during her time at Francisco Law College and later became a runner-up in the Miss Philippines Beauty Pageant, earning the title of Miss Mindanao.

After raising their children, Maria and Gus embarked on new adventures together. They worked in Dubai and traveled extensively across the world, exploring historic cities and cultural landmarks. Following Gus's passing, Maria spent her final years living with her daughter's family in California. She found joy in companionship through NAIM-a widows' and widowers' group-and cherished time with the Red Hat ladies.

Maria is survived by her loving children: Michael Francisco and his wife Nicholli; Marc Francisco; and Michelle Garnier and her husband Clifford. She leaves behind eight beloved grandchildren-Maida Melissa, Patrick Joseph, Paul John Michael, Audrey Ellena, Elyse Faye, Joshua James, Rebekah Mari, and Maxwell Edison-as well as eight great-grandchildren: Dana, Alyssa, Emily, Mason, Madden, Kaiden, Mila, and Zoe. She is also survived by her siblings Ricardo Fernandez, Pilar Wilson, Marilou Veloso, and Robert Fernandez.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gustavo Francisco; parents Jose Fernandez and Cleopatra Fernandez; and siblings Jose Fernandez Jr., Remedios Buenavista, Francisco Fernandez, and Antonio Fernandez.

Maria lived a full life filled with love for family and friends. Her kindness touched many lives; she will be missed tremendously by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those who loved her.