Maria Soto-Romero

Maria Luisa Soto-Romero of McDade, TX formerly Austin, TX born on March 9,1944 in Caguas, PR passed to God on May 26, 2015. She and Jose' one of her brothers was raised by their Abuela (grandmother) in Puerto Rico. As young children they went to school and worked. She learned loyalty and responsibility at a very young age. They had a hard life but never let it bring them down. Abuela told her to spread her wings and go see the world. She traveled to NYC, NY and married Frank Soto Jr for 20 years. In those 20 years we enjoyed many camping trips and day trips. From camping trips to McKinney Falls and Lockhart State Park to day trips to LBJ ranch and San Antonio Zoo. She was the most attentive, present mother. Every thing she did when we were growing up was for us. We had a fun life. She was the eldest of nine brothers and sisters. While she and Jose' were raised by their grandmother the others were not. Over the years mom reunited the long lost siblings. She was full of love for family and friends. Mom made a life by giving. A girl scout leader for many years. She taught the girls how to cook, sew, backpack, and so much more. We all learned friendship, compassion, respect, and responsibility from her. She spent countless hours volunteering at church, recreation center, and grandson's school. She was the hairdresser you told your secrets to and knew they were safe! Later she became a CNA working in nursing homes, taking care of others always making people smile. That taking care of others continued with the birth of her first grandson! Oh my how she adored him. Always present and ready to go. Then the birth of her second grandson, you'd think she would slow down. Not Maria, still rip-roaring ready to go! She was the definition of selfless giving, never expected anything in return. Everyone she encountered was blessed with her kindness and generosity. She enjoyed traveling, dancing, and her Catholic religious faith. She traveled back home to Puerto Rico several times, Florida, Virginia, Washington, Cozumel, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Rhode Island and one of her favorites was Israel; the trip to the Holy Land. Praying and dancing everywhere she went. She could make a room light up! Memories of Maria will always be with us. She is survived by two daughters: Gigi Soto, RN and Laura Jeanne Schmoker married to Craig Schmoker; two grandsons, Samuel Noah Schmoker and Luis Justin Schmoker. Blessing of her ashes will be held on July 18th noon at St. Ignatius Church.