Affectionately known as "Big Momma" and "Mari," Maria Luisa Reyes  passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the age of 60 in her home in Dade City, Florida. Born on April 17, 1964, Maria was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who touched the lives of everyone she met.

Maria was the cherished daughter of Virginia Tijerina and Lucio Tijerina and was raised in a home full of love, laughter, and the warmth of her close-knit family. She attended Pasco High School and Plant City High, going on to further her education in secretarial studies and excelling as a personal injury negotiator during her time working for Jacobs.

Known for her vibrant personality and iconic sense of style—complete with her love for leopard print and daisies—Maria brought joy to every room she entered. She found happiness in the simple pleasures of life: belting out songs during karaoke, indulging in Hallmark movies, sipping wine, and shopping. Her warmth, humor, and quick wit made her a pillar of her community and a trusted confidant to many.

Maria's dedication to her family was unwavering. She leaves behind her children, Juan Alberto Saucedo, daughter in law Minnie A. Castro, Julian Saucedo and Luis Saucedo, who were the center of her universe. She also adored her grandchildren: Dulce Maria Saucedo, Juan Jesus Saucedo, Tristan Saucedo, Luis Saucedo, Logan Saucedo, K'leigh Saucedo, Kasidy Saucedo, Vincent Stevens, James Walker, Aiden Walker, Alex Medrano, and Chance Walker. Her grandchildren lovingly called her their guiding light and protector.

Maria was the treasured sibling of Lorenzo Martinez, Homer Reyes, Carmen Reyes, Lucio Tijerina Jr., Ludi Tijerina, Ruben Tijerina, Araceli Tijerina, Guadalupe Tijerina, and Joseph Tijerina, and the proud aunt to many nieces and nephews who looked up to her as a source of wisdom and encouragement.

Maria's legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends who remember her as a hardworking, honest, stubbornly reasonable, and fiercely loving woman. She will forever be celebrated for her iconic style, enduring kindness, and unshakeable faith in the beauty of life.

A visitation will be held at Hodges Family Funeral Home in Dade City, Florida on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.. The funeral mass will follow at St. Rita Catholic Church in Dade City, Florida at 1:00 p.m.