age 79, late of Harvey, Illinois, formerly of Mexico City; cherished wife of Rafael Velasco; beloved mother of Diana Julieta (Louise Gomez), Berenice, Areli, Jaimie Vsanessa, Fernando and Jairo Gabriel Velasco; loving sister of Manuel Gallardo; daughter of the late Mario Gallardo and Elasiz Chavez.

Maria was an educator who taught social studies to grade 1-6. She enjoyed reading, knitting, cooking and playing solitaire.

Resting at the Adduci-Zimny Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 25th from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Service at 10:30 a.m. Interment Private.