Maria Navarro

Maria Victoria Navarro (Portu), 86, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia after battling Vascular Dementia and Parkinson's disease.

Born on February 10, 1939, in Caibarien, Cuba, a coastal town that instilled her love of the beach throughout her entire life. Maria's life was a testament to resilience, faith, and love. In 1961, she married Carlos Blas Navarro in Havana, and together they embarked on a courageous journey to the United States. Leaving behind their homeland, they embraced the challenges of starting anew with unwavering determination. Maria's deep faith was her guiding light, sustaining her through the uncertainties of immigration and helping her build a life filled with purpose and gratitude. She often reminded those around her that "with God, all things are possible," a belief that shaped every aspect of her life.

After settling in the United States, Maria and Carlos moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, where they dedicated themselves to learning English, furthering their education, and establishing a home rooted in love and tradition. It was there that they began their family-Maria's greatest joy. She cherished motherhood above all else and found immense fulfillment in raising her three sons: Carlos A. Navarro (Tricia), Gabriel M. Navarro (Angela), and Daniel A. Navarro (Tracy). Her devotion extended to her beloved grandchildren-Thomas (Paige), Davis, Grace, Luke, Matthew, and Tyler-whom she adored beyond measure.

Maria had a distinguished career as an executive assistant for several small companies before finding her true professional calling at Marist School in Atlanta as the Assistant to the Dean of Studies. Her dedication and warmth left a lasting impact on colleagues and students alike.

A woman of boundless generosity and hospitality, Maria delighted in bringing people together through food, music, and laughter. Her Cuban cuisine was legendary among family and friends, and she ensured that every gathering was filled with joy, dancing, and an abundance of delicious meals. She believed that relationships required nurturing and made it a priority to stay connected with loved ones daily-a practice that will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Maria's home was always immaculate and welcoming; whether planned or spontaneous, visitors were greeted with warmth and elegance. She carried herself with grace and style, embodying the essence of a true lady who made everyone feel special in her presence. Her holiday traditions-rooted in the customs of her Cuban upbringing-will be lovingly upheld by those she leaves behind.

Even as she faced late-stage dementia, Maria's love remained steadfast. She never forgot the names of her children or grandchildren, a testament to the strength of her devotion and daily connections with them. Her wisdom, laughter, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents Evelio and Victoria Portu and her beloved sister Maria del Carmen (Tita) Peña. She is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Carlos Blas Navarro; their three sons and daughters-in-law; six cherished grandchildren; and countless friends who considered her family.

A Funeral Mass will be held on March 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Saint Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, located at 7171 Glenridge Drive in Atlanta, Georgia. Monsignor Richard Lopez, a life-long family friend will preside over the Mass. A reception will be held immediately following at the Stapleton center at St. Jude's. In lieu of flowers, please make online gifts in memory of Maria Navarro to the Dementia Society of America. www.DementiaSociety.org/donate.

Maria's legacy is one of love, faith, family, and friendship-a life well-lived and deeply cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.