Maria Esther Rios Cruz

Maria Esther Rios Cruz, 73, of Worcester, MA, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at UMass Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, after a period of declining health. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Norberto Caez.

Maria was born in Rio Piedras, PR, on April 14, 1950, one of 5 children of the late Juana Cruz. She was raised in Carolina, PR, where she spent most of her life until moving to Worcester, MA for the past year. 

Maria was a devoted homemaker, who spent her life caring for other. She was a matriarch to her family and a caregiver to her children, parents and family members in need. She was an amazing cook and worked relentlessly to keep her home clean. 

In addition to her beloved husband, Norberto Caez, she is also survived by her son Gilberto Caez and his spouse, Tahiri Cortez of Puerto Rico; a sister, Ana L. Rodriguez; 2 grandchildren, Dahirianys Caez and Giahmelys Caez and her nieces and nephews, Angel Navarro, Reinaldo Navarro, Lardy Navarro, Ivette Navarro, Victor Ruiz, Hector Matos Cruz, Norberto Nater, Juanita Nater and Jonathan Nater. She was also predeceased by her son Brian Caez Ruiz and her siblings, Margarita Rios, Hector Matos and Antonio Rodriguez. 

Relatives and friends are invited to a time of visitation and celebration of her life from 5-8pm on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at Comfort Cremation Funeral Home, 1027 Main St, Worcester, MA.