Maria Cecilia Chavez

October 9, 1951 - September 6, 2022

On Tuesday, September 6, 2022, Maria Cecilia Chavez, sadly passed away at St. Josephs Hospital in Phoenix, AZ with her children and grandson at her side. She was 70 years old. Cecilia was born on October 9, 1951 in Yuma, AZ to her beloved parents Edward and Socorro (Palacio) Perez.

She graduated from Kofa High School. On April 1, 1978. She married Alex Chavez. Together they raised three children, Paula, Edward and Erica. Maria worked for Yuma School District #1 and was assigned as crossing guard to Palmcroft Elementary School. For 8 years, her strict no-nonsense demeanor ensured the safety of many children entrusted in her care. Tragically, she passed away doing what she loved most. This is a great loss, and she will be missed by her community.

Our beloved mother was passionate about dogs. She would advocate on her social media page to be on the lookout to help missing/lost furry friends and help them to find their way home. She was a huge fan of rock singer, Tina Turner, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and oldies but goodies.

Cecilia was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Socorro Perez, and her beloved fur babies, Momma, Popcorn, Miyagi, Logan, Chino and Bumper.

She is survived by her husband Alex, her three children, Paula (Christian) Lyle, Edward Vara and Erica Chavez, and several grandchildren (Adrian Navarro, Edward Vara II, Bianka, Alysah, Jaelyn and Isaac Lyle), and great-granddaughter (Ava Lyle).

The family would like to thank the Yuma community for their prayers and support. Donations may be made to Humane Society of Yuma in Maria's name.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Yuma Mortuary on Main Street from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Please sign the guestbook at www.legacy.com/obituaries/yumasun