Maria Antonietta "Toni" Bejarano

Maria Antonietta Bejarano of Tucson, AZ, was called Home to our Lord on August 1st, 2025. She was 96 years young. Born on March 6th, 1929, in Nogales, Sonora, to Gregorio and Mercedes Leyva, Maria’s life was a testament to the beauty of a soul truly dedicated to others.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jose Bejarano, the man who shared her journey and whom she loved with all her heart. She is survived by her five children, Nancy, Alma, Jose “Pancho,” Yolanda, and Michelle. Her spirit also lives on in her seven grandchildren, Amir, Amanda, Amber, Jose, Jacob, Andrew, and Isabella as well as her precious great-grandchildren, Viana, Allegra, Sofia, and Emma. Her siblings, Andres, Eva, Mercedes, Obedia, and Norma, also hold a special place in her memory, and her surviving sister Aida remains a testament to their enduring bond.

Maria’s life was a legacy of sacrifice, love, and faith. She dedicated herself to her husband, her children, their children, her church, and above all, to her Lord, Jesus Christ. Maria had a special, intimate friendship with Jesus and a deep devotion to His beloved Mother, Mary. For 45 blessed years, she was a pillar at Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Through her leadership in prayer groups and retreats, Maria inspired endless souls to draw closer to God's love. Her compassionate spirit carried her beyond Tucson’s borders, reaching into remote communities in Mexico to share the Good News and uplift those in need through her heroic example of joy-filled sacrifice and unwavering trust in God’s plan.

Maria was deeply loved and admired. Her spirit will forever reside in our hearts, her legacy a beacon guiding us in faith and love. Though she has departed from this earthly life, her eternal peace in the arms of our Lord is our comfort. This loss leaves us with a profound void in our hearts, but we find solace in knowing that she is now in the presence of her Savior, shining forever in His perfect peace.