Mary L. Quintana

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Quintana, who departed peacefully on the morning of Saturday, March 14th 2026, surrounded by those who loved her most.

Born on June 17th 1932, in Las Tusas, New Mexico, to Narciso Espinoza and Ruben Martinez Espinoza. She was raised in a large, close-knit family and was the 3rd youngest of her siblings. Her early years were shaped by deep loss with the passing of her mother while Mary was still a child, leaving her to be raised by her father and siblings. From these hardships emerged a spirit that was passionate, unapologetic, and impossible to overlook.

To know Mary was to admire her. She was a woman of remarkable strength and a heart of gold. She carried herself with grit and humor, balancing a strong independence with a deep and quiet love for those closest to her. Her children were the center of her universe.

She married Jose Tomas Quintana on July 3rd, 1950 at a young age and lived in Antonito, Colorado, until 1970. She moved west to build a life full of memories, laughter, and family. And what a life she built!

Mary is survived by her children: Loretta Quintana, Mitchell Quintana (Jerri), Shelly Benavidez, and Sheilla Batalla. She also leaves behind 22 grandchildren, 59 great‑grandchildren, and 27 great-great grandchildren.Her siblings: Ruby Elsworth, Lilly Ruybal, Cicilio Espinoza,Tony Jaramillo.

She was preceded in death by her parents Narciso Espinoza and Ruben Martinez Espinoza. Her Husband Jose Tomas Quintana. Children: Vivian Vasquez, MaryEmma Maestas, Thomas Joseph Quintana(Sonny). Son-In-Laws Raul Batalla and Michael Benavidez and her great‑granddaughter Alyissa Garcia.Her Siblings: Olive Jaramillo, Elsie Valdez, Joe Espinoza, Molly Benavidez, Sally Herrera, Tillie Granado, and Ruthy Espinoza. 

Mary enjoyed dancing, especially the jitterbug, moving with a joy that made it impossible not to smile. When she wasn’t dancing, she was off to Bingo or Wendover, where luck somehow always seemed to sit right beside her. Whether she came home with winnings or just good stories, she made every trip an adventure.

Mary’s home was filled with moments of mischief, laughter, and the kind of chaos only her children and grandchildren could create. Some of the most cherished memories of Mary were the moments spent gathered with her brothers and sisters, playing cards or dominos for hours on end where laughter, arguments, and accusations of cheating ensued. It was loud, it was lively, and most of all it was authentic.

Her love wasn’t delicate—it was strong, a steady flame, and unwavering. It did not always arrive softly, but it was rooted in love. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, independence, humor, and an unforgettable spirit.

We would like to thank all the staff at St Joseph’s Villa.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The Quintana family respectfully invites you to join us in celebrating the life of Mary on Wednesday, March 25th 2026 at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church 4914 South 2200 West, Taylorsville, UT 84129, with a viewing at 10:00 AM, Rosary at 10:30 AM and Mass at 11:00 AM.  Interment at Redwood Memorial Estates, 6500 South Redwood Rd, South Jordan. Luncheon to follow from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the Lunch Hall.

Interested in ordering flower arrangements? Please contact Melanie Hooten | Ph: (801) 815-1421