Maria Izaguirre

Maria Esther Izaguirre Fernández, beloved wife, devoted mother, grandmother, cherished sister, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the age of 81, surrounded by her loving family. 

Maria’s life was a radiant testament to courage, compassion, and unwavering faith. Born in Cuba, she came to the United States as a political refugee, carrying nothing but hope in her heart and her two young children in her arms, while her husband remained in exile and later served with honor in the U.S. Army. In the face of hardship, she never wavered. She built a beautiful life—centered in family, guided by devotion, and grounded in service to others. With grace and quiet strength, she began a new life in a new land—anchored in purpose, fueled by love. She was the heart and soul of her family, a profoundly devoted wife and mother who always placed the well-being of her loved ones above her own. She nurtured her children with gentleness and joy, rooting them in faith, encouraging their dreams, and celebrating their every milestone—from little league games to graduations, from everyday triumphs to life’s defining moments. She was always there, smiling, cheering, believing. While raising her family, Maria pursued her passion for beauty and self-expression. She earned her cosmetology degree and opened a beloved salon on Atlanta’s iconic Peachtree Street. To Maria, beauty was never just surface-deep—it was something sacred in every person, waiting to be seen, honored, and celebrated. Her clients quickly became friends, and her salon became a place of comfort, confidence, and community. Maria’s warmth was magnetic. Her home was a sanctuary of welcome, filled with laughter, delicious food, and blooming flowers she nurtured with her green thumb and tender spirit. Her smile lit up every room, and her joy—often shared through a contagious laugh—brought light to all who knew her. Deeply faithful and fiercely patriotic, Maria was forever grateful for the opportunities this country gave her family. Her love for her adopted homeland was grounded in lived experience, sacrifice, and gratitude. She embodied the virtues of the woman described in Proverbs 31:25-29 - dignified, wise, strong, and kind. But above all else, Maria will be remembered for her extraordinary faith and capacity to love. She prayed deeply. She loved completely, without hesitation, without condition—with her whole heart. 

She is survived by her children Amado R., Raul A., Ana M., grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, nieces and nephews, many extended family members and dear friends. She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Amado J. and her parents, Antonio and Isolina. Her love remains with us—in the lives she touched, the family she built, and the legacy she leaves behind.

The family will receive friends from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at Tillman Funeral Home, 2170 South Military Trail, West Palm Beach. A Funeral Service officiated by Pastor Dennis Eastling will begin at 11:30 AM at the funeral home on Wednesday. Interment will follow at 1:30 PM at South Florida National Cemetery where Maria will be laid to rest with her beloved husband Amado. Please assemble in Lane #5 by 1:15 PM if attending services at the cemetery on Wednesday.