Maria N. Ruffo

Maria Juanita Navaira Ruffo, officially known as mom, momo and grandma went home
to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on October 03, 2025 at the age of 85. She
passed peacefully, surrounded by love and has now reunited with cherished loved ones
who went before her. She was a devoted wife for 65 years to Cristobal Ruffo and a
loving mother to Cristobal Ruffo Jr, daughter in-laws Sylvia Ruffo and Olga Ruffo. She
was also the proud grandmother of Salina Ruffo and great grandmother to Messiah
Martinez and Mario Moreno III. She loved her parents Adan and Juanita Navaira.
Though they preceded her prior to her passing their memories remained close to her
heart.
Maria was born on January 14, 1940. She lived a life defined by kindness and
generosity. Maria is survived by daughters Rose Flores (Alfonso), Janie Miller (Gary),
Irene Solis (Jesse), and sons Andrew Ruffo and Ernest Ruffo. Maria had 18
grandchildren, 42 great grandchildren and 24 great great grandchildren. Maria worked
for many years in San Antonio Independent School district as a lunch lady where she
was adored by students and staff alike. Her beautiful warm smile, gentle spirit and
unwavering care made her a beloved figure in the community. She had a gift for making
people feel seen, heard and loved whether through a kind word or a shared laugh or a
comforting meal. Maria was the kind of person who made you feel at home with just a
smile. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed
and forever remembered.
She lived her last two months at Brookdale Hamilton Wolfe an independent senior living
facility and she loved it. She made many good friends there, too many to name all. The
staff and nurse Jen Nixon loved her dearly. A special thanks to the Methodist Main
Hospital ICU RN's Leti, Bernie, Jessica, Rachel and Maria and Dr Grzankowski. They all
worked tirelessly on mom. Vitas Healthcare Hospice, an incredibly special place, gave
her tender care and comfort. George who gave mom wonderful baths, which she
acknowledged when she told him she loved him. Nurses Anna, Edna, Chastity and Dr.
Sandra Sanchez, all angels in disguise. Maria (mom, momo, grandma) did not suffer, a
promise kept. Prayers and love for all who knew Maria. She will forever be missed.
Refreshments will be available at Palm Heights Mortuary Cafe on October 13, 2025 the
day of the viewing and rosary.