Maria was born on June 21, 1934, on the beautiful island of Guam, where she spent her early years surrounded by the culture and family she held dear. At the age of 18, she married her lifelong love, David D. Perez, beginning a journey that would take her across the globe. As a dedicated military spouse, Maria was the steadfast anchor for her family, providing a sense of home and stability no matter where in the world they were stationed.

Her greatest fulfillment came from her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. To Maria, her family was not only her priority, but also her greatest pride. She had a unique gift for making everyone in her presence feel deeply cared for and loved.

A woman of profound and unwavering faith, Maria was a devout Catholic throughout her life. Her devotion was visible in her daily rhythm; later in her years, when she was unable to attend Mass, she found great peace in watching Mass every morning and was rarely without her rosary, which she prayed faithfully day and night. Her life was a living testament to her beliefs, defined by grace, service to her family, and a quiet, powerful strength.

She is survived by her two sons, David Perez of Killeen, Texas, and Darrell Perez of Hurst, Texas; her grandchildren, Erica Perez of Austin, Texas, Psacha Smith and her husband, Tyler, of Hurst, Texas, Ryan Perez and his wife, Staley, of Round Rock, Texas, Jessica Cervenka and her husband, Brian, of Georgetown, Texas, and Jayme McNeill and her husband, Jourdan, of Texarkana, Texas; and her great-grandchildren, Hudson Cervenka, Lincoln Perez, Callum Cervenka, Mason Perez, Jennings McNeill, Lainey Cervenka, and Owen Smith.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Austin Mafnas Chargualaf and Maria Leon Guerrero Cruz; her beloved husband, David Duenas Perez; and her son, Donald Perez.

Mass will be held on May 12, 2026 at 11:00AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Killeen. A viewing and rosary will follow at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Killeen.