Maria Elena Cantu, 78, was born on July 27, 1947, to Francisco and Clara Cantu in Bishop, Texas, and later made Corsicana her home. She passed away on March 16, 2026, in her home, surrounded by family.

For many years, Maria worked at the Medical Arts Clinic as both a housekeeper and a translator for the doctors. She loved her community deeply, and the community loved her just as much. If someone needed help, whether it was a phone call, an appointment, or simply a steady hand, Maria was there for anyone and everyone.

She was known for her thoughtful spirit and her contagious smile, the kind that could brighten even the hardest day. A breast cancer survivor, she carried herself with quiet strength and unwavering grace.

Maria loved cooking and baking for her friends and family. She made the best tortillas, and her tradition of making pan fino will continue through her grandson.

Music and dancing were lifelong joys for her. As a young girl, she and her sister would play records and dance in their room, and that love of dancing stayed with her throughout her life.

Her faith was the foundation of her days. She believed deeply in God’s promises, and her family takes comfort in knowing she is now dancing in Heaven.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Francisco and Clara Cantu; her daughter, Maria Chriselda Cantu; and her brother, Francisco Cantu Jr.

She is survived by her sons, Higinio “Henry” Cantu Jr. of Corsicana and Sebastian Cantu (wife Tammie) of Springfield, Missouri. She leaves behind her grandchildren: Shawn Cantu (wife Stephanie), Tina Cantu, Caitlyn Saikovski (husband James), Bailey Cantu (fiancé Kaelee), and William Cantu; as well as her great‑granddaughter, Violet Saikovski.

She is also survived by her sisters Petra Cantu, Lupe Bland, and Rosie Laubscher (husband John); and her brothers Arnulfo “Pete” Cantu (wife Grace) and Jesse Cantu (wife Patricia). She loved her many nieces and nephews dearly.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal service. She asked to be cremated, and her ashes will be spread in the ocean with her daughter. A celebration of their reunion and the love that forever binds them.