Flor Maria DeJesus Obituary (1952

Flor Maria DeJesus, lovingly known as Maria, passed away at the age of 71 on December 13, 2023, at Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden, NJ. She was born on August 17, 1952, in Guayama, Puerto Rico, to Santo DeJesus and Aida Ortiz. Maria was one of twelve siblings, being the second eldest. At the tender age of 12, while most girls her age were enjoying their childhood, Maria was pulled out of school to dedicate herself to raising her younger siblings. She selflessly embraced the role of a caregiver and nurturer, raising Mimi, Monchy, Bert, and Ramon—her younger siblings and nephew whom she cherished and treated as her own children. At the age of 18, the entire family moved to New Jersey, where Maria continued to exemplify her selflessness and dedication to her family. As an adult, though she was unable to biologically have children God blessed Maria with the opportunity to be a mother to many. Throughout her life, she played a pivotal role in the lives of numerous nieces and nephews. Notably, she was a guiding influence and caregiver to Eduardo, affectionately known as "Momo," and Trinidad, lovingly called "Princess whom she raised from infancy, nurturing them with boundless love and care. Maria's passion for sports was unrivaled. She found joy in watching various sports events, especially the Atlanta Braves, professional wrestling, and above all, her beloved Dallas Cowboys. Her devotion to her favorite team was unwavering, and her enthusiasm for their games was infectious. Among the many treasures in her life were her son, Momo, her daughter, Princess, and her grandchildren, Jayden, Jeremiah, and Kayla, whom she cherished dearly and considered the jewels in her crown. Maria is survived by her daughter, Trinidad, grandchildren, Jayden, Jeremiah, and Kayla, as well as siblings Rafael Sr. (Lydia), Jose (Mercedes), Maritza, Victor (Lucy), Magdalena, Carmen, Jannette (Adrian), and Monseratte. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Yessenia, and a host of nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces. She was predeceased by her son, Eduardo (Momo), sister Adela, brothers Santiago and Jose Alberto (Bert), nephews Ramon, Rafael Jr. (Bibby), Mariano (Nuno), and Ramon, (Corky) as well as her parents. Her love, guidance, and selfless dedication to nurturing her family will forever remain etched in the hearts of those she touched.