Mrs. María Santana was born in Morelita, Guerrero, Mexico, one of ten children of Vicente and Glafira Santana. Guided by her mother, a devout Catholic, she learned early in life about God's love and mercy. After losing her father at a young age, María left home to work as a maid in Mexico City, determined to help support her mother. When the opportunity arose to come to the United States, María embraced it as a way to continue providing for her family. She spent most of her life working in the grape fields of the Central Valley and at packing houses such as Wawona Packing and Del Monte while raising her 4 children. Through her hard work, she was able to build a home for her mother in Mexico—one of her proudest accomplishments. Among her coworkers, she was admired for her strong work ethic, her kindness, and the delicious meals she lovingly shared.

Without extended family in the U.S., María's friends became her family. Holidays and gatherings were always filled with warmth, food, and laughter, as she welcomed others into her home and her heart. Even when times were difficult, she never hesitated to help someone in need, offering whatever she had with generosity and love.

María leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and selflessness. She is survived by her children Glafira, Norma, José Luis, and Julio, as well as five grandchildren: Laurence, Josiah, Javier, María, and Isabella.

Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. She will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know her.