Maria Emilia Lightheart, 91, of Hialeah, FL passed away on May 1, 2026. Born in Havana, Cuba to Angel and Isabel Baquero on July 8, 1934. Maria came to the United States at the age of 15 and attended and graduated from Miami Edison High school in 1954. She married George W. Lightheart on November 27, 1954. Maria is preceded in death by her husband of 64 years and her daughter, Elizabeth Lightheart Balzer.
Maria is survived by her daughter, Suzanne Lightheart (Tony) Jewell; grandchildren, Marcus Angel (Rachel) Jewell, Anthony Douglas Jewell Jr., Suzette Mercedes Jewell (Johnny) Ventura; and great-grandchildren, Jaiden Nicholas Jewell, Jorden Kendall Jewell, Anthony Douglas Jewell III, Bella Angelina Jewell, Star Suzanne Jewell, and Zoe Eleanor Jewell.
Maria was always devoted to her family. She retired at a young age to be able to spend time with and help raise her 3 grandchildren. Aside from her creating memories with her family, she enjoyed traveling, painting, sewing and crocheting. She also had a special love for all animals, music and reading.
Maria’s optimistic outlook, courage, strength and determination kept her going for 91 years. Her life has been and will continue to be an inspiration to all family and friends.
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