Maria E. Toledo

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Maria Encarnacao Toledo (Pereira Luis), a woman whose life was a beautiful legacy of love, unwavering devotion, and extraordinary hospitality. Maria passed away peacefully at her home in Hanford, CA, on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the age of 87, just a year after the passing of her beloved husband.

Born on March 31, 1938, in the village of Vila Nova on Terceira Island, Azores, Maria carried the warmth of the islands in her heart throughout her life. In 1974, she courageously immigrated to the United States, settling in Hanford, CA, alongside her devoted husband, Henrique Toledo, and their six children.

Maria and Henrique shared a beautiful and enduring love story, celebrating 64 years of marriage before his passing on November 2, 2024. Together, they immigrated to America, built a rich life rooted in hard work and dedication to family, and truly lived their American Dream.

For 33 years, Maria worked diligently as a machine operator at Contadina Food, but her true calling and joy was tending to her, loving family. Her free time was never truly free, as it was dedicated entirely to the ones she loved most. Maria’s home was a true sanctuary, always filled with the comforting scent of her cooking. Her hospitality was legendary; she never met a guest she wouldn't warmly welcome and insist on feeding, ensuring no one ever left her house hungry.

Maria had a deep connection to her roots and found immense happiness in simple, beautiful pleasures. She took great pride in tending to her vibrant garden, cared lovingly for her animals, and cherished the festive atmosphere of Portuguese celebrations, where she could often be found dancing and enjoying the close company of her many friends. She was a loving mother and grandmother, remembered for her strength, her devotion, and the endless source of affection she gave to everyone she met.

Maria is reunited now with her husband, Henrique.

She is survived by her six children: Matilda Toledo, Maria Vaz, Adrianna Perez, Ana Toledo, Connie Cordero, and Manuel Toledo.

She leaves behind the joy of her life in her many grandchildren: Tom Ochoa, Jennifer Ochoa, Frankie Vaz, Natalie Baumgartner, Brandon Vaz, Sharicka Glass, Lynn Glass, Adrianna Glass-Agbogidi, Rebecka Toledo, Logan Woods, Gregory Cordero, Marlana Cordero, Masson Cordero, Destinee Cordero, Liandra Toledo, Liandro Toledo, and Chloe Toledo, as well as many treasured great-grandchildren who will carry her spirit forward.

Maria’s legacy is one of unconditional love, deep family commitment, and the generous spirit of a woman who made everyone feel like they were home. She will be profoundly missed, but the lessons of her kind, warm heart will continue to bless all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will forever remain in the hearts of her beloved family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maria E. Toledo, please visit our floral store.