With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our dearly beloved Maria Esperanza Aleman Cruz of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. On May 12, 2025, at the age of 42, Maria was called home, leaving behind a legacy of love, quiet resilience, and boundless grace that touched the lives of all who knew her.
Born on December 8, 1982, Maria Esperanza was a woman whose name reflected her spirit—”Esperanza,” meaning hope, perfectly embodied her approach to life. She was a beacon of light to those around her: a devoted partner, a loving mother, a treasured daughter, and a cherished sister. Her life was marked not by grand gestures, but by the small, everyday acts of kindness that defined her character. Her strength was soft-spoken yet unwavering, her heart generous beyond measure, and her love for her family unconditional and enduring.
Maria is survived by her beloved partner, José Miguel Delgado García, who stood by her side with unwavering devotion and shared a life filled with profound love and partnership. She was the proud and nurturing mother of three children, each of whom carries her values, strength, and spirit forward. Her greatest joy in recent years was becoming a grandmother to little Araceli Adela Delgado-Téllez, whom she adored with all her heart. To Maria, family was everything—her love was the steady rhythm that kept the household moving, warm, and full of life.
To her parents, siblings, extended family, and the countless friends who came to know her, Maria was a source of compassion and quiet guidance. She had the rare ability to listen without judgment, to offer comfort without expectation, and to create a sense of home wherever she was. Her gentle demeanor, ready smile, and unwavering loyalty made her a trusted confidante and a deeply loved friend.
Maria had a strong faith that sustained her through life’s trials. She was a devoted member of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, where she found solace and community. Her spirituality was humble and steadfast, expressed not in words but in her daily actions—her service to others, her prayers, and her unwavering hope, even in difficult times.
To honor her memory, a viewing will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, followed by a funeral Mass. All who knew and loved Maria are invited to attend and celebrate the remarkable life she lived.
Maria Esperanza Aleman Cruz’s physical presence may be gone, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. In every memory shared, every lesson passed on, and every act of love inspired by her example, Maria continues to shine. We will miss her deeply, remember her fondly, and carry her love with us always.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Rest in eternal peace, dearest Maria. Your love was a gift, your life a blessing, and your memory a treasure.