Maria Galarza passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Maria was a native of Quito, Ecuador. She and her young family emigrated to the United States on September 9, 1969.  She was seamstress for Hilton Clothiers in Linden for 25 years.  When she was home, she was a busy mother to her five children. She could often be found in the kitchen listening to her music and cooking up her family's favorite meals.  She was never one to complain or fuss.  She looked at each day with gratitude for the family that God had provided for her, and her family in turn looked at her as their gift to them.

Maria was preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 60 years, Julio Galarza.  She will be missed beyond measure by her children: Patricio, Eduardo, Julio, Marcelo, and Cataluna Galarza; numerous grandchildren, and loving relatives and friends.

Friends may call on Monday, April 7 from 5-7pm at the Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords.  Cremation will take place privately.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Caring Hospice of Edison.