Maria Rosita Villanueva's Obituary
Maria Villanueva Obituary
Maria Rosita Villanueva, affectionately known as “Mary” to her loved ones, graced this world with her presence on December 22, 1934, in the lush surroundings of Pahoa, Hawaii. A beacon of love and friendship, Maria departed peacefully on April 5, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawaii, surrounded by the family she cherished deeply.
Maria's early years were spent in Kapoho on the Big Island, and in Wailuku on the island of Maui, where she attended Baldwin High School. Her youthful spirit and contagious smile were a prelude to the wonderful life she led. After graduating, Maria dedicated many years of her life as a cashier in retail stores on Oahu, like Kress, GEM's Kapalama, and Macy's. Her co-workers complimented her personality and how she touched the lives of the customers she met with her kindness and warmth. She also shared her nurturing heart as a teacher's aide at Aiea Intermediate summer school program, where she left a lasting impact on the students and staff.
Her love story with husband of 64 years, Alfonso “Al” Villanueva was one for the ages, filled with shared dreams and enduring companionship. Together, they raised three sons: Mark (Johnine), Alan (Karin), and Gary Villanueva. Maria's role as a matriarch extended to her adored grandchildren, Mark Anthony, Christopher, Jenalyn, Nicolas, and Mariah, and to her great-grandchildren, Topher, Guinevere, Hari, and Taeri, who will carry her legacy forward with each step they take.
Maria's faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted parishioner at Our Lady of the Mount Catholic Church in Kalihi Valley. Her unwavering commitment to her volunteer ministry work was a testament to her thoughtful and giving nature. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was swaying to the rhythms of 50s popular band music, losing herself in the magic of Hollywood romance and comedies, or delighting in the intricacies of Korean dramas.
She also enjoyed traveling with her husband Al, and sister Connie. They visited cities and landmarks in the United States, England, Europe, and South America. On all their travels, they returned home and brought back gifts, and shared stories and photos of the people and friends they met throughout their journey.
Those who knew Maria would describe her as the embodiment of love, a friend to all she encountered, and a thoughtful soul who always placed others before herself. Her laughter was infectious, her counsel sought after, and her presence a source of comfort and joy.
Maria is survived by her Brother: Florendo "Paul" Villanueva (Washington State); Also predeceased were parents, Agapito and Eugenia, her sister Consuelo "Connie", her brothers Hayme, Abelardo “Abe”, and Miguel “Mike” Villanueva.
As we reflect on Maria's life, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Maria's love has indeed become a part of us, woven into the fabric of the many lives she touched. Her memory will be treasured and kept alive through the stories shared, the values she instilled, and the warm embrace of her family and friends.
Maria's journey on this earth may have come to a close, but her spirit continues to shine brightly, guiding us with the same love and grace she so generously shared. We bid farewell and Aloha to a remarkable woman whose life was a beautiful tapestry of love, friendship, and service. Maria Rosita Villanueva will be profoundly missed, yet forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at Our Lady of the Mount Church: 1613 Monte Street, Honolulu, Hawaii. Visitation begins at 9:00 am and service 10:00 am. Burial to follow, 12:30 pm at Mililani Memorial Park Cemetery.
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