January 15, 1943 – January 1, 2025

Maria Yolanda Roman was born on January 15, 1943, in Ruidosa, Texas, to Regino S. Nunez and Guadelupe Nunez (Mediano). She was the second-born child but the oldest female among her siblings Jesus (Jesse), Maggie, Jeanie and Mario. She grew up in Marfa, Texas, where she developed strong maternal instincts, often helping care for her younger siblings, taking on household chores and even assisting her father with car repairs.

Maria married her high school sweetheart, George Roman Jr. As George served in the Air Force, Maria had the opportunity to travel the world, temporarily living in Bakersfield, California, and Pordenone, Italy, before moving to Del Valle, Texas, where she raised her family and eventually laid down roots in Austin, Texas.

Maria was the proud matriarch of the Roman family, raising four children: George (Suzy), Rome, Gabriel, and Regina (Robert). She was a devoted grandmother to ten grandchildren — Rhiannon, George (Ben), Gianna, Rome, Nicolas (Nico), Tylin, Dontae, Jazmine, Rae, and Rocco — and a cherished great-grandmother to Kaitlyn, Lauren, Ian, Caiden, Jayli, Jiovani, Kairo, Iyanna, Nyla, and Katalina. Maria was ever-present in their lives, having a hand in raising each and every one of them. She delighted in creating memories with her grandchildren, from catching lizards, to taking them shopping for school supplies, cheering them on at their sporting events, and inviting those willing to join her at church.

Maria worked for the IRS for 42 years, holding multiple positions and earning the respect of her colleagues for her dedication, attention to detail, and unyielding work ethic. She approached every challenge with determination, embodying the resilience and strength that defined her character.

Maria’s stubborn, headstrong nature was paired with an immense capacity for love. A devout Catholic, she infused her faith into her daily life and family traditions. She loved making her family feel safe, using rituals passed down through generations. She often performed sana, sana, colita de rana, rubbing a comforting hand over her children and grandchildren’s aches, and would cleanse them from the mal de ojo by carefully rubbing an egg over them. Her ability to soothe and protect her family was one of her many superpowers.

Maria had a natural gift for bringing joy to her family’s lives. She made up silly songs to sing to the kids, filling the house with laughter and love. Midnight Wendy’s trips for chicken nuggets, her homemade tortillas and rice, and her dedication to ensuring everyone felt cared for were just some of the ways she showed her love. She was always there to support her family in whatever they wished to do.

Her passions extended beyond family life.

In her younger days, her competitive spirit shone brightly in basketball and volleyball, especially enjoying basketball’s intensity, where she could fight both on and off the court. She was a lifelong fan of Kenny Rogers and Tom Jones, and her favorite song, “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” by Paul Anka, was a timeless comfort. She adored watching crime mysteries like Law and Order: SVU and could often be found engrossed in Lifetime movies.

Maria shared a special bond with her cousin Lonnie Mendoza, enjoying crossword puzzles together, and she maintained a close connection with Mary Jane Mendoza.

Maria was an extraordinary woman, full of life, love, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She was truly one of a kind, a beacon of strength and warmth. Her family was immensely blessed to have had her as their foundation, their guide, and their heart. The lessons she imparted and the love she shared will be treasured forever.

Maria is preceded in death by her son, Rome; her daughter, Romelia; her brother, Jesus (Jesse); and her parents, Regino and Guadelupe.

Maria will be deeply missed by all who knew her and even more so by her family. Her unwavering love, resilience, and the traditions she instilled will live on in the hearts of those she touched.