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María Cristina Moreno de Sánchez, lovingly known as Doña Maria and to many as María Garcia, entered into eternal rest with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the age of 97, with her family by her side, in the comfort of her home.
Born on Jan. 1, 1929, in Mexico City, Mexico, María was the cherished daughter of Carlos Moreno and María Cristina Meneses de Moreno. She lived a life defined by unwavering faith, deep devotion to God and an enduring commitment to her family. Her love and service were evident through her dedication to her beloved parish, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and her perpetual willingness to support her church family, friends and anyone in need. She served others selflessly with kindness, generosity and a joyful spirit.
María pursued her education with enthusiasm, attending the Universidad Autónoma de México in Mexico City. She further cultivated her love for music by studying voice alongside her sister, Isaura, at the prestigious Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City, Mexico. Her lifelong devotion to her Catholic faith remained a cornerstone of her identity, enriched by her active participation in the church choir and her deep spiritual life. She was an inspiration in this to her children and grandchildren.
Professionally, María devoted 26 years of service to Dalton Corporation before her retirement. She was known for her strong work ethic, integrity and her commitment to doing what was right. The friendships she formed during her career brought her lasting joy and continued well into her retirement years.
María found immense happiness in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She had a deep love for flowers, filling her home with vibrant indoor and outdoor flowers and plants that reflected her nurturing spirit. An exceptional cook, she delighted family and friends with traditional meals, including homemade salsas, tortillas, and many treasured recipes that celebrated her cultural heritage. She was an inspiration in this to her children and grandchildren.
Her appreciation for music and dance came alive at the many gatherings she hosted and attended with her beloved husband, Telésforo. Family road trips to Mexico became epic, cherished traditions, where María’s remarkable skill and confidence behind the wheel often saw her driving through the night. Telésforo would occasionally awaken to the sound of rising engine RPMs and gently remind her, “Maria, ease up on the speed.” She often reflected that her father Carlos, a professional driver, was with her during those nighttime journeys, guiding her safely and effortlessly to their destination. These trips created lasting memories and strengthened her deep connection to family and tradition.
María was a beloved matriarch, a woman of deep faith, and a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She treasured her family above all and found her greatest joy in their happiness.
Those left who mourn are her loving husband, Telésforo Sánchez Garcia; her daughter, Claudia Sánchez de Swanson (husband Jeff Swanson); and their children, Spencer Swanson and AnnaMaría Swanson-Fear (husband Matthew Fear); and their children Liam and Noah Lee Fear; her son, Tomás Sánchez Moreno (wife René); and their children, Olivia and Mateo Telésforo Moreno; her son, Martín Sánchez Moreno (wife Kellie); and their children, Zakkary Moreno (wife Lindsey) and Chloe Moreno. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Isaura “Chiquis” Moreno Meneses, of Mexico City; along with many nieces and nephews across the United States, Mexico, Spain and Germany.
María was preceded in passing by her parents and five brothers, whose memories she carried lovingly throughout her life.
Her legacy of faith, love and service will live on in all who were blessed to know her.
With deep gratitude, María’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the Heartland Hospice team — including nurses, Ryan, April, aides McKenzie, Jada and social worker Megan. All of the 24-hour and on-call staff and visiting weekend nurses whose compassionate care, guidance, and unwavering support meant so much to the family during this time. God bless you all.
Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw is entrusted with María's care. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2 from 10 until noon with Mass beginning at noon at Our Lady of Guadalupe, 225 Gilliam Drive, Warsaw.
To leave a condolence or send flowers, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com
