Maria Gonzales

Maria Gonzales, born on January 25, 1934, in Sebastian, Texas, entered into eternal rest on October 20, 2025. To those who knew her, she was more than a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend—she was a woman of deep faith, a spiritual matriarch whose life reflected the light and wisdom of God. Many spoke of her as a prophet-like presence, one whose prayers seemed to touch heaven and whose words carried peace and truth. She walked with quiet strength, guided by divine purpose, always ready to listen, to comfort, and to speak life into the hearts of others.

Maria’s journey began in humble surroundings, but her spirit was rich beyond measure. She lived with a servant’s heart, never seeking recognition but always serving others with compassion and grace. Her faith was her compass—an unshakable trust in the Lord that guided her through every season of joy and trial. To her family, she was both anchor and inspiration, a woman whose love was steadfast and whose wisdom was timeless. She also found great joy in life’s simple blessings—tending to her flowers, surrounding herself with their beauty, and caring deeply for her beloved cats, who brought her comfort and companionship throughout the years.

She now joins in glory her parents, Angelita and Manuel Gonzales, and her siblings, Olivia Hernandez, Hermelinda Esquivel, Margarita Heredia, Pedro Gonzales, and Aristeo Gonzales, all of whom have gone before her into the arms of the Lord. Though her earthly presence will be missed, her spirit continues to dwell in the lives of those she touched. She is survived by her daughter, Mary (Loy) Vanbrunt; her cherished granddaughter, Brandi (Gary) Rakes; and her beloved great-granddaughter, Ilah Rakes, who carries forward her light and legacy. Her love also extends to her nephews, Jimmie (Vickie) Gonzales and Shaun (Tamsen) Gonzales, and her nieces, Angel (Joe) Stroop and Amber (Gavin) Harrington—all of whom were blessed by her prayers, her counsel, and her unwavering belief in family. She also leaves behind her adored great-nieces and nephews, Mason and Marissa Gonzales, Savannah and Alex Stroop, and Will Harrington, who will carry with them the memory of her boundless love and gentle spirit.

A faithful member of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Pulaski, Tennessee, Maria devoted her life to worship, prayer, and service. Her church family knew her as a woman of quiet prophecy—one who spoke encouragement, shared wisdom, and lived the gospel she so deeply believed. Her life was a ministry in itself, a living testimony of what it means to walk closely with God. Pastor Janiro Hawkins will officiate her homegoing celebration, with a graveside service to follow at Charity Cemetery, directed by Hazel Green Funeral Home on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 10:30am.

Maria’s legacy is one of enduring faith and unconditional love. She taught those around her that prayer was not merely words spoken but communion with the Divine, that love was the greatest commandment, and that no storm was too great when God was near. Though her earthly journey has ended, her spirit continues to shine—a beacon of faith, hope, and everlasting grace. She will be deeply missed by her family and by her best friend, Brenda Brackin, who stood beside her through her late life’s joys and sorrows. As her loved ones remember her life, they take comfort in the words of scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”