Maria Milagros Franco

Maria Franco, 84, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.

Maria was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and the beloved matriarch of her family. She is survived by her husband, Lucas A. Franco “Beto”; her daughter, Lucy Nieves; her son, Edwin Hernández; seven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Generoso Ayala and Jacobina Torres Tirado, as well as her sons, Willie Jr., Victor, and Luis Raul.

Maria, lovingly known as “Maruca” to family and friends, was the anchor of her family — a woman of fierce strength, deep compassion, and endless generosity. She gave selflessly to everyone she met and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, and resilience that will continue to live on through all who knew her.

One of Maria’s greatest joys was spending time with her family, especially playing Parcheesi together — moments filled with laughter, love, and memories that will forever be treasured.

A service celebrating Maria’s life will be held on Wednesday at 12:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held the day prior on Tuesday May 19, 2026, at Colonial Funeral Home, 2811 Curry Ford Road, Orlando, FL. from 6-8 PM.