Maria Esther Novoa's Obituary
Maria Esther Novoa: A Life of Courage and Joy
Maria Esther Novoa (nee Porrata), fondly known as Esther, Mamí Esther, and Grandma, departed this world on April 13, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on April 3, 1937, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Esther's life was a testament to resilience, determination, and the joy of living.
Esther's life was a testament to resilience and courage. Raised in Arecibo amidst poverty and challenging circumstances, she experienced the hardships of her time. Despite the adversities, Esther's spirit remained unbroken.
At 21, Esther left behind the familiar shores of Puerto Rico and embarked on a courageous journey to New York, where she embraced new opportunities with unwavering resolve. Settling first in Spanish Harlem and later in the Bronx, Esther's indomitable spirit flourished as she navigated life in the U.S.
In the 1980s, Esther embarked on a new chapter in San Diego, where she continued to embrace life with open arms. Although she spent some time in Las Vegas and Orlando, she would spend over 30 years in San Diego, making it her home
Throughout her remarkable life, Esther was a beacon of strength, raising not only her own children but also her siblings and grandchildren with true love and dedication. Her decision to take on the responsibility of raising her grandchildren after the loss of her own daughter speaks volumes about her unwavering courage and selflessness.
Esther's love for music and dance was as vibrant as her spirit. From the soulful melodies of boleros to the rhythms of bomba and plena, to the tumbao of salsa, music remained a constant presence throughout her life. For Esther, dance was not just a hobby; it was a celebration of life itself, which she shared with anyone who had the honor of knowing her.
Esther's resilience knew no bounds, even in the face of personal challenges and health struggles. Despite battling diabetes, heart issues, and eventually undergoing a leg amputation, she refused to let adversity dim her passion for life. Her tenacity and persistence brought light to the lives of all who knew her.
Esther's legacy of courage, determination, and joy will live on through her daughter Maria Elisa and son Jesus Manuel, her grandchildren, Marcos, Miesha, Sujey, Michael, Luis Jr, Jesus Manuel (Zeus), Manuel Omar, Zelideh, Danielle, Manuel Jesus, and Edwin Jr; her great-grandchildren Tassiana, Anthony, Luis III, Dashawn, Tamares, Yanessa, Michael Sekou, Leonel, Adrian, Amari Valentino, Luna Celeste, Manuel Omar, Lehanna Yaneece, Demetrius, Amaya, Tiago, Maya, Dahlia, Nico, Alayna, and Yohannes; and her sisters Carmen Gloria and Norma.
A celebration of Esther's remarkable life will take place on Sunday, May 19th, at Greenwood Memorial Park (4300 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA 92113), beginning at 11 am PST.
As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, let us carry forward her spirit of resilience, courage, and joy, knowing that her legacy will forever inspire us to embrace life with unwavering enthusiasm and determination.
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