Maria Natalia Bolaños, age 91, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2015. She was born on January 12, 1924, in San Miguel, El Salvador to Jose and Dolores (Zapata) Bolaños.

Maria carried the warmth, strength, and traditions of her homeland throughout her life. Doña Natalia (as she was also known by) was a devoted mother and grandmother, whose greatest joy came from caring for her family. She loved cooking and took pride in preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table. Music filled her home and heart, and she found happiness in sharing songs, laughter, and cherished moments with those she loved.

She was known as a fierce protector of her only son and a loving, doting grandmother whose kindness and affection touched generations of her family. Her love, guidance, and unwavering devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Maria is survived by her beloved son, Salvador A. Bolanos, Sr. and his wife, Maria, of Ocala, Florida; her grandchildren, Neysa Bolanos of Ocala, Florida, Salvador A. Bolanos, Jr. and Jason Bolanos of Springfield, MA; and her great-granddaughters, Millie and Mary Beth Gilkes of Ocala, Florida.

Maria Natalia Bolaños will be remembered for her loving spirit, her dedication to family, and the comfort and joy she brought to all who were blessed to know her.

Family and friends gathered to honor and celebrate Maria’s life at funeral services held on Wednesday, July 1, 2015, at Baldwin Brothers Silver Springs Funeral Home.