Maria Armida Islas

Maria Armida Islas Fontes

May 30, 1931 – October 19, 2026

Maria Armida Islas Fontes, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully departed this world on October 19, 2026, at the age of 95, to take her place beside God in the Kingdom of Heaven. She was a beautiful soul with a heart of gold who lived a full and remarkable life.

Armida was a woman whose kindness, generosity, and compassion touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Always willing to help others, she had a genuine concern for the well-being of those around her. Her years were filled with family, treasured friendships, laughter, and unforgettable experiences. She leaves behind a legacy of love and memories that will endure for generations.

Born on May 30, 1931, in Magdalena, Sonora, Mexico, Armida was the daughter of Juan de Dios Fontes Galaz and Manuela Brigida Castro Gonzalez. She graduated from Colegio Católico de Batuc before returning to her hometown of Magdalena de Kino, where she taught at Colegio Católico de Magdalena until her marriage. During her younger years, she was also an active member of the Círculo Guadalupano de Señoritas de Magdalena de Kino.

In 1956, Armida married Joaquin Islas and began a new chapter in her life. Following their marriage, she immigrated to the United States, where she built a home centered on her husband, children, and community. She proudly became a naturalized United States citizen in 1996, an accomplishment that held special meaning for her. Armida remained actively involved in her community and generously shared her talents with others. She studied dance at the Nogales Dance Academy and later taught dancing at Saints Peter and Paul in Tucson, Arizona. She served as PTA president at Hollinger Elementary School and was a longtime member of the Club de Damas Sonorenses, where she formed many enduring friendships.

Armida had an extraordinary zest for life. She loved family gatherings, celebrations, and the company of good friends. Never one to shy away from a good party, she enjoyed singing, dancing until the early hours of the morning, sharing a glass of wine, and occasionally indulging in a shot of tequila. She carried herself with grace and elegance and was always impeccably dressed, often in her signature high heels. Her wonderful sense of humor, infectious smile, and captivating stories of her youthful adventures were all part of her unforgettable charm. She had a natural ability to light up a room, bringing warmth and laughter wherever she went.

Armida also possessed an adventurous spirit and a passion for travel. Her journeys took her throughout much of the United States and to numerous countries across Europe. Among her many memorable experiences was riding a camel in Morocco, a reflection of her willingness to embrace the unexpected. Her boundless energy and enthusiasm kept her looking forward to the next gathering, celebration, or new experience.

Above all, Armida was a devoted wife, an extraordinary mother, and a loving grandmother and great-grandmother. She raised six boys, and throughout her life, her family remained the center of her world. Her affection was unconditional, and she took immense pride in watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow through the generations.

She was also an exceptional cook whose delicious meals brought family and friends together around the table. No one ever went hungry in her presence, and there was always room for one more at her table. The memories of those meals, lively family celebrations, and time spent together will forever remain close to the hearts of those who shared them.

Her generosity extended far beyond her own family. She had a special place in her heart for those less fortunate and frequently traveled to Mexico to donate clothing, food, and other necessities to people in need. Helping others came naturally to Armida. Whether lending a hand, offering encouragement, or sharing what she had, her willingness to give knew no bounds. Armida lived a long and meaningful life. She explored the world, embraced its opportunities, celebrated its joys, and faced its challenges with strength and grace. She gave freely of herself, loved without reservation, and left an enduring impression on everyone whose path crossed hers.

Those who knew Armida will remember her elegance, her radiant smile, her entertaining stories, her delicious cooking, her love of music and dancing, and, most importantly, the warmth and goodness of her heart.

To those whose lives she touched, Armida was truly a saint on earth.

Armida was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Juan de Dios Fontes Galaz and Manuela

Brigida Castro Gonzalez; her devoted husband, Joaquin Islas; and her daughter, Helen Islas. She is survived by her six loving sons, Joaquin (Maria), Raul (Cook), Steve, Juan Carlos (Pachi),Raymond (Moni), and Coltron (Bethany); her 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Josefina Fontes Guerrero, Loly Fontes Méndez, Cecilia Fontes, and Fernando Fontes; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Although she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on through the generations of family she so dearly loved and through the countless lives she enriched along the way.

A beautiful soul never truly leaves us. It lives forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love her.

Rest in peace, Armida. You were deeply loved, and you will be forever missed.

“Madre querida, gracias por tu amor infinito, por tus enseñanzas y por todos los momentos hermosos que compartimos contigo. Tu recuerdo vivirá por siempre en nuestros corazones.Descansa en paz, hasta que nos volvamos a encontrar.”

A Special Thank You. The family wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of the Valley and Via Elegante, where Armida spent her final days. The exceptional kindness, compassion, and generosity shown by the administration, caregivers, and staff provided comfort and dignity during this difficult time. Their dedication and loving care will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.