Tributes

Maria Gonzalez Alva, born August 16, 1947, in Kingsville, Texas, passed peacefully into the light of our Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday, November 15. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, faith, and the power of kindness. Maria entered the world as one of eighteen children, and though her beginnings were humble, she was blessed to be adopted by Mike and Rosa Gonzalez, who lovingly raised her in San Antonio, Texas. In their home she learned the values that would define her life: compassion, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to family. Maria attended Burbank High School, where fate brought her to her high school sweetheart and the great love of her life, Felix G. Alva. Their bond was immediate and enduring. Together, they built a marriage rooted in joy, respect, and deep affection. Their home was warm and full of laughter, and it became even more blessed when they welcomed their first son, Eric Jon Alva. Seven years later, their family grew again with the birth of Bobic Jon Alva, completing the loving household Maria treasured above all else. Maria lived a life centered on nurturing others. She possessed an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen, valued, and embraced. Her warmth was not quiet—it was vibrant, joyful, and contagious. She spread love, cheer, and understanding wherever she went. Her commitment to community was beautifully expressed through her work in founding the Burbank Women’s Alumni Group. What began as a small effort to maintain connections became a thriving network of friendships that endured through decades. Maria organized weekly meetings, gatherings, and celebrations—each one filled with her signature energy, hospitality, and playful spirit. Through this group, countless women found lifelong friends, support, and a place where they could truly belong. Maria retired from San Antonio Water System after many loyal years of service. The friends she made during her time with the city continue to remember and honor her to this day. Maria had an eye for beauty and a heart open to wonder. She adored animals of all kinds—especially turtles, owls, and dogs. Her love for creatures great and small reflected her gentle nature and her appreciation for the simple joys of life. Animals always seemed to sense her kindness, just as people did. Even as she entered her later years and began her long and difficult battle with dementia and Alzheimer’s, Maria’s sweet spirit continued to shine. Her nurses and caregivers spoke of her with admiration and affection, often describing her as one of the kindest and most delightful people they had ever cared for. She remained gracious, gentle, and loving, even when memories faded. Maria’s life can be described through the roles she embraced so wholeheartedly: As a mother, she was endlessly generous, fiercely protective, and overwhelmingly loving. As a wife, she was loyal, virtuous, and joyfully devoted. As a friend, she was exuberant, gracious, and full of life. As a daughter, she was dutiful, altruistic, and steadfast. After a life filled with love, family, and faith, Maria is reunited in heaven with her beloved parents, Mike and Rosa V. Gonzalez, and her cherished husband, Felix G. Alva, whom she missed dearly. She leaves behind a profound legacy carried on by her two sons, Bobic Jon Alva and Eric Jon Alva, and her granddaughter, Jerrica Ann Jon Alva, who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. Maria lived fully, loved deeply, and touched countless lives. Her memory will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known her, and her light will shine on in every story shared, every friendship strengthened, and every act of kindness done in her honor. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 P.M. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. A funeral service will be celebrated at 9:00 A.M. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at San Fernando II where she will be laid to rest with her beloved Felix G. Alva.

Tributes

Maria G. Alva

August 16, 1947 - November 15, 2025