Obituary of Maria R. Fernandez

Age 93, of Elwood, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Sunny Hill Nursing Home in Joliet. Born in Havana, Cuba on September 25, 1932, a daughter of the late Manuel and Paula (nee Diaz) Milian.

Maria came to the United States from Cuba in 1960 to work as a nanny. She was a very loving and devoted mother and grandmother, always putting her children’s needs first and creating a warm, safe environment for them. Despite the challenges she faced after leaving Cuba, she worked tirelessly to build a better future for her family. Her faith in Jesus was a vital part of her life.  She loved caring for children, whether it was through her job, helping in the church nursery, or assisting in her daughter’s daycare. There were so many children that ended up calling her Grandma, because she made everyone feel like family.

Maria is survived by her children, Elmer Fernandez (Martha), Maria Diaz, Mike Fernandez (Shawn) and Ann Connor (Kendrick); 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husbands, Oscar Diaz and Miguel A. Fernandez; and her son Oscar Diaz, Jr.

A memorial gathering for Maria R. Fernandez will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial service at 11:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Joliet. Per her request, cremation rites have been accorded.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.