https://youtu.be/Kk254tMtZN8

My beloved mother-in-law Maria Luisa Chavez, a mother of 6 & grandmother of 11, was tragically killed in a 5 car crash on August 22nd, at Atlantic & Union Pacific in Boyle Heights, California. She was celebrating her 74th birthday over the weekend and was in a car occupied by her daughter Nelly & granddaughter Celeste. The crash was believed to be caused by a person under the influence of a controlled substance and has since been arrested. We are truly fortunate that Celeste has only sustained minor leg injuries, however Nelly is still recovering at USC in the Critical Care unit.

It’s a story you expect to hear on the news, and nothing close to a reality you’d expect to be apart of. My in-laws are in desperate need of help for a proper burial for their dear mother/grandmother, as well as any pending and incurring medical bills for Celeste and Nelly’s hospitalization. We so humbly and with great gratitude ask to please donate by whatever means you can afford too to help us during this unimaginable time.

We’d like to add that the devastation that surrounds Maria’s death should not overshadow the light and love she chose to bring into this world and everyone around her. Any loss of life comes with hardships, but the sudden loss of a life brings about the fear of unexpected expenses. We are striving to remain in good spirits to support our healing family members both in the hospital and at home, and the kindness of loved ones and strangers can definitely help us all try to make sense of this nightmare. We thank you all for sharing our story and choosing to be apart of our journey to heal & put our angel Maria in heaven to rest.

6 Children:
Nelly, Martha, Olivia, Rosie, Carlos & Jose Jr.

11 Grandchildren:
Julian, Celeste, Chris, Shanell, Ryder, Adam, Andre, Ivan, Valerie, Eddy, Daniel

Expressions from Family:

“I loved my grandma so much! She was kind, warm, and always made me feel safe to be with her, especially in my worst moments. I always wanted to see her more but because of covid I didn't feel comfortable doing that. Just recently I was vaccinated so I planned to visit her, but then this happened. I knew grandma was getting older and felt she may not have many years left, but she didn't need to go like this. My family is devasted and we have all been walking under a stormy cloud since this happened. Any donations would help. Thank you.”
- Adam 


“My grandma was an angel. I’m going to miss her so much. She would pray for almost everyone every single day. Even for her neighbors. She took care of her grandkids with so much love. If my mom Nelly visited quickly, she would come back with a wrapped up burrito and jalapeño. My grandma always made sure that we were fed. Her voice and touch, Im going to miss. My grandma had the warmest touch and smile. As my cousin Adam said, she could have had more years here with us. It’s unfortunate how the mistakes of others can cause pain and suffering in innocent lives and families. Please help us. Thank you.”

⁃  Celeste

“My grandma had a beautiful heart, she was caring , loving and helpful. She loved helping others and giving back. She even prayed the rosary everyday for us and her neighbors. I will miss her hugs, her voice her laugh, her touch and her company.  I will miss seeing her and giving her long hugs. I will also miss going to church with her, auntie Nelly, mommy, cousin Celeste and eating all together. And on the weekends she was especially happy when we would take her to HomeDepot, Burlington, the market and all her favorite stores. I am going to miss her always and everything we did together but I will always have those memories in my heart. She last told me a few months ago to remember her by her scarves when she's gone. It will always hurt me to think that she knew I loved her scarves and made her happy to know I will keep them close to me all the time. I hope see her again one day in heaven, I wish she didn't have to go this way. It will never be same without my grandma . I love and will miss her forever and always.”
- Shanell

My mom was so loving and caring. Whenever I would visit her she would always give me food to take home. Some thing for my husband or children. She always wanted me to have a glass of milk, because she remembered how much l loved to drink milk when I lived with her before getting married. She cooked the best food! We all loved her cooking. She taught me to cook, she taught me to care for plants and flowers, which she loved and always had beautiful plants and flowers in her little garden. I love mom. I will miss her very much. I'm happy she had a nice birthday celebration with her loved one’s before the horrible accident. If you are able to assist, thank you. God bless you and your family. To my loved one’s: “Let’s keep moms special memories in our hearts and mind. And cherish her pictures.”  To God: “Thank you God for all the days mom was with us. Thank you God for your love and mercy. We will love mom, grandma forever.” I will miss mom and her special care for me, my family and everyone else who knew her. Amen Praise the Lord. 

- Olivia

"I miss my grandma. Maria Luisa Chavez was like a second mom to me, but also a mom to us all. She cared for every one of us like a mother should. She was always there for me, her and my grandpa. They would always make sure I was fed, picked me up when I fell, and put bandages on my bruises. Maria was taken so unexpectedly, it is heartbreaking. There were so many things I've never got to say or do and all I can do now is remember her life through pictures. I am very lucky to have her in my life and have told her I love you one last time. I hope she enjoyed every last minute with us because we did. I hope she finds peace and knows she was loved by many. I will never forget you. Love you grandma."
- Chris