Maria Jimenez Ballesteros Martinez, beloved mother and avid gardener, danced her way into eternity on January 22, 2024, her 77th birthday. Maria was born on January 22, 1947, to Polo Sanchez and Angelita Jimenez.

Maria was known for her green thumb and spent countless hours tending to her vibrant garden, nurturing the flowers and plants that brought her so much joy. In the tranquility of her backyard, she found solace and peace, creating a haven where beauty blossomed freely.

When Maria wasn't busy cultivating her garden, you could often find her immersed in the captivating world of novellas. With each episode, she was transported to a world of passion, drama, and romance, her heart following every twist and turn of the storylines.

But above all else, Maria cherished her role as a devoted mother. Throughout the years, her love knew no bounds, and she tirelessly worked to create a nurturing and loving home for her family.

Maria faced the adversities of life with unwavering strength and resilience. She fought and triumphed over breast cancer not once, not twice, but a remarkable four times. Her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination inspired all who knew her, serving as a shining example of courage in the face of adversity.

Aside from her green thumb and love for novellas, Maria had a passion for dancing. She was always the life of the party, moving with grace and joy. Her infectious enthusiasm brought a smile to everyone's face and ignited the dance floor.

Maria's legacy extends beyond her exceptional gardening skills, her favorite telenovelas, or her fantastic menudo. She will be remembered as a strong and loving woman, a beacon of strength for her family and friends. Her magical touch and caring nature touched the lives of those around her and left an everlasting impact.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marcos Martinez; parents, Polo Sanchez and Angelita Jimenez; and siblings, Estella and Benito.

Maria is survived by her daughter, Tanya Marie Ballesteros; sons, Leandro Martinez III, James Martinez, Ray Martinez (Julie Carrizales) and Roy Martinez ( Celia Garcia); brothers, Nemencio, Charlie and Felix; sisters, Herminia, Lupe, Lena, Emma, Diana, Adela, Margarita and Angie; grandchildren, Serina Martinez, Tiffany Martinez, Natividad Martinez, Mateo A. Martinez, Cassandra Martinez, Violet Martinez, Jazmine Ballesteros Sanchez, Ariel Sanchez, Anastacia Ballesteros-Mata and Zaidyn Ballesteros-Mata; along with 10 great-grandchildren; along with numerous nieces and nephews and other family members.

Services for Maria scheduled for Saturday, February 3, 2024, in the Hurley Funeral Home chapel, starting with a visitation from 9:00 am until 11:00 am, with a funeral service at 11:00 am.  Burial will follow at Charlotte Community Cemetery.