Maria Elizabeth Duarte passed away on March 4, 2024, in her birthplace of Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 44. Born on August 13, 1979, Maria lived a life marked by love for her family and friends, enjoyment of the arts, and an appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Maria found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her love for music, art and movies was only surpassed by the love she had for her family and friends. Picnics in Madera Canyon with loved ones were among her most cherished moments, where the serenity of nature spoke to her soul.
Maria's life was a reflection of her vibrant personality: her free spirit, kindness, creativity, and beauty. She is lovingly remembered by her parents, David and Elizabeth Duarte; her sisters, Darcy, Stephanie (Luis), and Andrea (Brian), 7 nephews and 5 nieces; her children, Roberto Pedrazzini and Crystal Heppe (Jared); and her precious grandchildren, Ruby, Maisie, and Josiah.
Preceding her in passing were her paternal grandparents, Andres and Vivian Duarte, and her maternal grandparents, Alejandro and Beatrice Leon, as well as her beloved nephew, David Moreno.
Maria's fun-loving and spirited presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide her family and will be treasured as a beacon of joy and love in the lives of those who knew her. We take solace in the belief that she rests in peace, reunited with her beloved family members who have gone before her.
The Duarte family invites those who knew Maria to join in celebrating her life. Her legacy of warmth, creativity, and love will continue to live on through the memories she leaves behind. A service will be held in her honor, with details to follow.