On June 16, 2022, God called a very special angel home. Her name was Maria Elena (Dominguez) Wiley, and she was a warrior.

Maria was born March 20, 1956 in Albuquerque, N.M., to Louis and Mena Dominguez.

She was a true survivor who conquered hardship and diversity. She served proudly in the U.S. Air Force and retired after 26 joyful years. During that time she became a mother, a wife and a hero. Maria loved her children more than she loved herself. She was always willing to give all that she had to anyone in need and never met a stranger. She was always there no matter the reason or consequence and always found a way to provide.

Among her many accomplishments, one of the most difficult which made her proudest, was her sobriety. The battle was long and costly, but she and her family prevailed and conquered. She had a love of nature, her melting pot heritage, and most importantly Elvis.

She will always be remembered by her spicy nature and strong will. In fact, it was that strong will that allowed her to give the fight of a lifetime. After undergoing a surgical procedure, Maria would experience multiple organ failures. With medical care, she was given a low fighting chance. However, for nearly 3 months she fought, even when her body just could not anymore.

On June 16, 2022, at 9:30 p.m., at St. Louis University hospital she took her final breaths surrounded by her loving family.

Maria is survived by her siblings Sofia, Nestor, Antonia; her children Brandy, Jaquoi, Shereene, Jeana; her grandchildren Isaac, Isaiah, William, Luke, Tevine, Taaliyah; and her great-grandchildren Alondra and Gabriel.

She is joined in heaven by her father and mother Louis and Mena, her siblings Louie, Juanita, Michael, Joseph and her beloved granddaughter Thea.

"Never found a four leaf clover to bring good luck to me. No rabbit's foot, no lucky star, no magic wishing tree.
But I got lucky, yes I got lucky when I found you." Elvis Presley.

It was truly the world that was lucky to have you in it. You will forever be deep in our hearts. Your loving nature, wild spirit and sassy humor will forever drive this family. Such a beautiful soul gone too soon, but whose life was not in vain. We love you Mommy and we always will!! Until we meet again, may God bless you.

After all, it's never really goodbye, is it.

Memorial donations are suggested either to the family or to the funeral home to assist with expenses. Flowers and other gifts may be delivered to the funeral home by Noon, July 2, 2022.

An intimate Memorial Gathering to celebrate the life of Maria will be held at Wolfersberger Funeral Home, on Saturday, July 2, 2022, from 2 – 5 pm. A service will begin at 2 pm. Military honors will be rendered at 3:30 pm.