It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Elena DeLeon, a beloved mother, grandmother, and pillar of her community, who departed this life peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on September 13, 1945, in Charlotte, Texas, Maria's life was a testament to love, devotion, and the art of nurturing those around her.

Maria was a talented seamstress, known for her generosity in crafting beautiful things for friends and neighbors. Her culinary skills were legendary, especially her famous strawberry cake and expertly made tortillas, which became highlights of many family gatherings. A devoted homemaker, she cherished Sundays when family would gather around her table, enjoying the warmth of her cooking and the love she infused into every meal.

As a supportive mother and grandmother, Maria instilled values of kindness and togetherness in her family, treating everyone as her own. Her dedication to her church and the community exemplified her unwavering faith and commitment to helping others, embodying the essence of a true Proverbs 31 woman.

Maria is survived by her loving children, Anna DeLeon, Roman DeLeon Jr., and Ruth DeLeon Sanchez and husband Ricky Sanchez; her esteemed brothers, Andreas, Carlo, Jesse, Juan, and Domingo Cantu; her cherished sisters, Gloria Gonzalez and Lucy Benavidez; as well as her beloved grandchildren, Juan Carlos Estrada Jr., Ceasar Estrada, Christian Estrada, Mercedes Sanchez, Jessalyn Sanchez, and Anthony Sanchez; and great-grandchildren, Isaac and Aliyah Estrada, and Niko and Ezra Sanchez. She was preceded in death by her parents, Domingo and Jesus Cantu, her husband, Roman DeLeon, and her brothers, Francisco, Robert, Rosa, Joe, and Ray Cantu.

Family and friends will gather to honor Maria's life and legacy at Hurley Funeral Home. A visitation will be held on August 20, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, leading to a funeral service at 7:00 PM. A graveside service will take place on August 21, 2026, at 10:30 AM at San Jose Cemetery in Jourdanton, Texas.

In this time of grief, we find solace in the love and memories Maria leaves behind, and we invite all who knew her to join in celebrating a life well-lived. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.