Maria Esther Lopez

Maria Esther Lopez, beloved wife of 65 years to Fernando S. Lopez (who predeceased her on July 21, 2025), devoted mother, grandmother, and the unwavering foundation, light, and inspiration of her family, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, in Sarasota, Florida, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Ciego de Ávila, Cuba, Maria emigrated to the United States in 1967 with her husband Fernando and their two young children, seeking freedom and opportunity. She lived a life deeply rooted in faith and guided by an unshakable devotion to family. Maria proudly raised four children, instilling in them strong values centered on respect, hard work, compassion, and service to others. Maria had a lifelong passion for fashion and design, both personally and professionally. As a dress designer and businesswoman, she inspired countless women with her exceptional eye for color, pattern, and fabric. In Cuba, she was recognized as a respected force within the local business community for her work in fashion and design. Over time, her creative talents expanded into interior design, where her sense of style continued to flourish. Always elegant, Maria never left home without perfectly styled hair, a touch of lipstick, and a hint of fragrance. A woman of strong faith and generous spirit, Maria dedicated her time and energy to causes close to her heart. She was especially proud of her involvement in fundraising and supporting the development of St. Jude Catholic Church in Sarasota, where she was a devoted and active parishioner. Maria is survived by her sons Fernando and his wife Milly, Peter and his partner Melissa Cirringione, and Robert; and by her cherished granddaughters Jacqueline, Jillian, Jessica, and Charlotte. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren. She was predeceased by her treasured daughter Katherine Mary, as well as her four brothers and one sister. A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 PM at Toale Brothers Funeral Home, located at 40 North Orange Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 12:00 PM at St. Jude Catholic Church, 3930 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34235. Maria will be laid to rest in New York at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 3442 Route 112, Coram, NY 11727, alongside her beloved husband Fernando and daughter Katherine Mary. The burial ceremony date will be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. May she rest in eternal peace.

Tributes

Maria Esther Lopez

January 21, 2026