Maria Adelita Garcia

Maria Adelita Garcia passed away surrounded by loved ones on September 19, 2025 in Ogden, Utah, after a hard fought battle with cancer. At only 51 years of age, she left us too soon.

Maria was born on November 5, 1973 in Upland, CA to Catherine Lucille Morales and Jose Estanislado Garcia. She grew up in Downey, CA with her mother Cathy, step-dad Rudy, and 5 of her siblings, Jose, Rudy, Paul, Sharon, and Sarah. Things were never dull growing up in a big family, with an endless supply of jokes, teasing, and pranks- some even resulting in laughter. She attended Downey High School, and made a lifelong friend in Adavel Fernandez. Downey would always hold a special place in Maria's heart.

Downey wouldn't always be where Maria called home. She spent many years in Long Beach and the rest of her life in Orange County. Here, she made many friends that she'd keep for life, including a soul buddy, Gabe Harter.

Maria was a dreamer. She had many big aspirations for her life. One of which was to become a clothing designer and talented seamstress. Another was to own fun businesses, such as a roller disco, an ice cream truck, and one which she brought to fruition; an event planning company. She also had a good sense of humor, and wanted to become a comedy writer, writing skits for famous comedians.

She was a talented creator, having big ideas for parties and events - always knowing how to bring them to life. She had this same gift with costumes, recipes, and her fashion sense. She always had the idea in her head, even if no one else could see the vision. Eventually she created something really special, bringing two daughters into this world: Zoe and Micaela. And by so doing, created two best friends.

Maria was raised in the Christian faith, and loved Jesus and her Heavenly Father. She attended the congregation of Willy Green in Compton, CA, where she found a welcoming home for her faith.

Maria spent many years serving up the best food and hospitality in the restaurant and catering industry, but eventually changed career paths to become a phlebotomist. She worked very hard in school, and became a very talented phlebotomist, making great friends like Gizelle Boctor, and her co-workers whom she lovingly called her "lab family".

The last several years of her life were some of her happiest yet, getting to be called Grandma. Her grandchildren were the light in her life, and she often visited Utah until she was able to move to be closer to them. She made that wish come true, along with her partner Jesse who lovingly supported her and joined her for the ride. She and Jesse spent many happy years together traveling the country, and enjoying life's simple pleasures together with each other by their side.

Maria was an accomplished butterfly, always changing and growing to be her best self. She accomplished the best life has to offer: growing a family legacy, and finding a comfortable rhythm, to which she most certainly danced to. Dancing in and out of our lives, in only a way that she could. Missed, but not forgotten. So until next time, we'll save the last dance for you, Maria.

Maria is survived by her two daughters, Zoe (Hyrum) Heward, and Micaela (Gary) Scott; her beloved grandchildren, Vida, Paloma, Patton, Sonora, Simon, and Baby Heward; her partner, Jesse, whom she shared many of life's adventures with; her step-dad Rudy Araiza and his children: Rudy Araiza, Paul Araiza, Sharon Williams, and Sarah Marquez; her father, Joe Garcia, and his children: Jose Garcia, Danny Garcia, Joshua Garcia, Mindy Garcia, and Timothy Garcia; her nieces and nephews, who were a highlight of her life, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her mother, Cathy Araiza, and many beloved grandparents.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Long Beach, 1500 E San Antonio Dr, Long Beach, CA 90807.