Obituary of Maria L. Chavez
Maria L. Chavez, age 81, of Plainfield, IL formerly of Chicago and Mexico, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born February 25, 1945, in Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico to the late Fermin and Guadalupe (Bustillos) Garcia.
She grew up in Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, where she spent her early years. In her teens, she met her husband, Eustorgio, when her family changed neighborhoods. They married in 1966, and immigrated to the United States in 1970 in search of new opportunities and a better life for their family. Maria was known for her strong work ethic and dedication. She spent over 20 years working at Zemsky’s Uniforms before retiring, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues through her commitment and perseverance.
Maria found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved cooking and was especially known for her delicious homemade soups, which brought comfort and warmth to everyone who gathered at her table and the family pets who gathered under the table. Although she often claimed otherwise, she had a soft spot for the family pets—spoiling them with affection, even if she playfully scolded them for the occasional mischief. She had a passion for plants and took pride in watching them flourish. She kept her mind sharp by completing word puzzle books and filled her days with music, never missing an opportunity to dance at any gathering.
Maria was very social and cherished her relationships. She enjoyed going out to lunch with friends in Chicago before later moving to the suburbs to be closer to her loved ones and stayed closely connected with friends and family near and far through regular phone calls. Above all, Maria’s greatest joy was her family. She loved attending her grandchildren’s events, cheering them on, and showering them with love and attention. Her grandchildren were truly her pride and joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.
Maria was deeply proud of her Mexican heritage, which she honored through her traditions, cooking, and the love she shared with those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion that will live on in all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter, Judith (John) Super; grandchildren, Sarah and Baker Super; sister, Angelina (the late Juan) Marquez; and brother, Silverio (the late Francisca) Garcia; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eustorgio Chavez; her parents; and her brother, Manuel Bustillos.
Visitation for Maria Chavez will be Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.) Joliet, from 8:00 a.m. until the time of prayers at 10:00 a.m. then processing to St. Francis Xavier, 2500 S. Arbeiter Rd., Joliet, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com, where you may share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
