Margarita Arias

Honoring the Life of Margarita Arias: A Legacy of Faith and Love Thursday, Feb 26 · 6:30–7:30 PM Google Meet joining info- Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zjo-svfs-zra In Loving Memory of Margarita Arias June 22, 1933 – February 22, 2026 Margarita Arias, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, devotion, and grace. Born on June 22, 1933, Margarita was the cherished daughter of William E. Esteven, born in Kingston, Jamaica, and Juanita L. Icaza, born in Ancon, Ecuador. She was lovingly raised alongside her sisters Aura, Carmen, and Melida, and fondly recounted stories of her brother Luis. From a young age, Margarita embodied joy and purpose. She had a tremendous love for singing, a deep passion for learning, and, through the faithful example of her parents, developed an unshakable devotion to God that guided her throughout her life. At a young age, she met the love of her life, Segundo R. Arias. Together, they built a remarkable life grounded in faith, love, and partnership, sharing 67 years of marriage. Their union was a testament to commitment and friendship, blessed with 12 children, 24 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren—a legacy that continues to grow. Mom found joy in life’s simplest and most meaningful moments. She loved to laugh, tell stories, sing songs, and sit beside her husband reminiscing, especially to the song of their youth, “Maria Bonita.” Her love was expressed not only in words, but through her time, her gentle touch, and her comforting affirmations rooted in biblical truth. She valued education and encouraged us to keep learning and to find the good in all things. A woman of deep faith, Mom believed in the power of prayer and taught her family to seek God wholeheartedly, often reminding us to pray and remain grateful in all seasons. She had a gift for nurturing others, offering everyone she encountered a kind word, a warm smile, and a generous plate of food. Her home, and her heart, were always open. She had a sweet tooth and would often lovingly say she married her husband because he was a baker, a reflection of her playful spirit and enduring love for him. She worked faithfully alongside Dad in their bakery and store. A devout Catholic, she read the Bible each night and prayed for hours for the well-being of family, friends, and humanity. She also humbly supported African missionaries and other charitable causes. Above all, she devoted her life to God and family and held firmly to the belief that she was the luckiest woman in the world. In her final days, Mom continually declared her love for God and expressed deep gratitude for her husband, her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren, and her extended family. Her life stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and unconditional love. Margarita was preceded in passing by her beloved husband, Segundo R. Arias, and her children Segundo Jr., Jose Luis, Jimmy, and Henry Arias. She leaves to cherish her beautiful memory her children William, Lily, Gilma, Melania, Caesar, Viola, Robert, and Cathy; her daughters-in-law Griselda, Mary, Jessenia (preceded in death in 2000), Carmen, Adriana, Julisa, and Cheri; her sons-in-law Carlos, Jose, Darrell, and Edwin; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, loving sisters, and extended family and friends. Her legacy of faith, love, and strength will live on for generations to come. A viewing will be held on February 26. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom link will be available from 6:30–7:30 p.m. during the priest’s prayer.

Margarita Arias

June 22, 1933 - February 22, 2026