Maria Julianna Neal

Maria Julianna Neal with grace and tenacity at the young age of 67 unfortunately lost her battle with cancer on Wednesday September 18th, 2024. Surrounded by love and light she peacefully transcended this earth from the comfort of her home.

An unknowing but truly cherished gift was bestowed upon the world when Maria was born to the late Jess Felix Reyes, and Rose Marie Abeyta (Parrino) on September 14th, 1957, in Denver, Colorado. Being born in the Golden age of Capitalism to a family that came from poverty, shaped Maria’s formative years and resulted in frugality, adaptability, and networking. Maria dropped out of high school to obtain her G.E.D. and quickly entered the workforce to become a provider for her family. She considered herself a student of life, mostly self-educated in her pursuits. A self-taught legal aide, social worker, and notary public. Maria worked as an Outreach Case Coordinator for the Department of Human Services in the city and county of Denver for 27 years. Where her character was tested, daily. She developed courage, strength, and the passion to help others. In simple terms she was the epitome of selflessness. Maria was an activist, a philanthropist, and a servant to the community. “The old adage ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way’ seems outdated when it comes to Maria.” Paving a way for the unknowing and the unguided, she became a powerful voice for the voiceless.

What Maria was to her family, she was to many. She was a daughter, a sister, a mother, an aunt, a grandmother, a partner in crime, and most of all a friend. In a sense she was the definition of being human. There are no words, simple nor eloquent, that could truly bring her justice. A divine being with a heart of gold, Maria opened her arms, her heart, and her home to all who sought shelter. She would be the first in line offering a helping hand and the last to leave until the doors were closed. Maria never had the capacity to take credit where it was due. So, to speak of Maria was to know her, but to be loved by Maria was to be seen.

Maria’s legacy will live on through her three adult children David J. Reyes-Neal, Matthew A. Reyes-Neal, and Rose M. Reyes-Sanchez of Aurora, CO. She was blessed with the role of grandma to Davichi M. Parrino-Neal, Anthony X. Reyes, Karissa N. Reyes-Neal, Analiyah M. Reyes-Neal, and Ryleigh M. Reyes-Meza. Left with decades of adoring and vibrant memories are her siblings Gloria Soliz-Ruiz, Barbara R. Perales, John Abeyta, and a grandiose number of nephews and nieces unable to be listed. Maria is preceded in death by her son Jake M. Reyes-Neal, and her three siblings Lorraine (Torch) Domingez, Elaine Peters, and Casey Reyes.

A viewing will be held on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at The Natural Funeral, 102 West Chester Street, Lafayette, Colorado 80026. The viewing may be viewed via Zoom by clicking here.

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6 thoughts on “Maria Julianna Neal”

  1. Maria was an absolute sweet lady .
    So caring and always willing to help wherever she was needed!
    Rest in peace, Maria🕊️
    Sending prayers of comfort and healing to your family and friends💕🙏

  2. My Dear friend Marita Neal know that you were one of my Good friends and like a sister to me .. I was so sad and heart broken when I heard you passed away but I know you are no longer in pain and rejoicing in the Heavens above with Jake your son who you loved dearly. . Thank you for always helping me and my family in difficult times .Thank for being my mentor and educator for teaching me the compassion and Resources when we worked together with families in crisis in different Resource Centers in Denver . , We had so much plans ahead. Losing you Marta is losing a part of my heart know I will love you forever until we laugh and talk again in the heavens above RIP my Angel..your laughter and personality I wish cherish forever. To your family you have my deepest Sympathy and Condolences May the lord give you strength in these difficult times Amen
    VERO ..

  3. Maria you were always my confidant my teacher my go to person you always had answers to all my questions you were amazing in everything you did. Even though when i first started working with you i was intimated by you but you at first but you helped me be the person I’m today and i am so grateful for that You helped so many people and families you are an angel and will never be forgotten! Best coworker teacher, role model and friend love you MARIA! I will & still miss you!

  4. Maria’s biggest attribute was her caring. Her warmth, compassion, kindness, sweetness and full of laughter has touched everyone who knew her. A wonderful human being! A privilege to know her.

  5. I had the privilege and honor to work with Maria at Denver Human Services. I was able to witnessed her kindness and dedication to help all her clients. She was a fierce advocate for the community. Maria has impacted many lives and I will never forget her.

    Sending prayers to her family during this very difficult time. I have no doubt her memory will live on with the many people.

  6. In Memory of Maria Julianna Neal,
    Though I didn’t have the privilege of knowing Maria closely, I have heard many wonderful things about the person she was. Maria was known for her down-to-earth approach to life, touching the lives of those around her with kindness and compassion.
    Her battle with cancer was a testament to her strength and resilience. Even in the face of such a challenging illness, Maria remained a source of inspiration and positivity. Her legacy is one of love, courage, and an unwavering spirit.
    As we remember Maria today, let us honor her memory by embracing the values she held dear. May we find comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
    Rest in peace, Maria Julianna Neal. Your presence will be missed, but your impact will never be forgotten.

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