Maria Esther Lugo Sawyer was on this earth for 86 years and for anyone who knew her well, they would have taken another 86 in a heartbeat. Born to Francisco Lugo and Esther Cardona, in Mexico City, she was one of five children. In this life she served, she loved, she laughed, and she cooked. A few days before her passing she shared that she was “complete” and so on June 29th, surrounded by her children she peacefully left this earth.
Our dear Mother, Sister, Abi, Bis Abi, Aunt, and friend was known in her life for her willingness to serve and care for others. At the young age of 17, she served a 30 month full time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She later married and raised five children, all while perfecting her recipes for enchiladas, mole, beans, pancakes and apple pies.
She formed countless friendships over the years while she worked in the Mesa Temple and continued to show her love as her family grew to include 10 grandchildren.
In retirement she continued to bless those around her. She served in the humanitarian aid group, making hundreds of burial sets for premature babies and other projects. All of her travel was with family, to visit family. She often opened her home and kitchen to share her divine cooking with loved ones. And in her free time she enjoyed a fierce game of solitaire, dominoes, Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune. Her family grew to include 18 great-grandchildren who she loved dearly whether near or far.
She is preceded in death by her parents, one sister and two brothers. She is survived by her sister Noemi Sanchez (Jorge), her children Greg Sawyer (Martha), Kent Sawyer (Mary Ann), Norman Sawyer, Marian Burgess, and Eric Sawyer, and all 10 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Maria was no stranger to trials and was a true example of what it means to have faith and endure to the end. We are eternally blessed because of her compassionate heart, jovial laughs, and loyal service to her family and friends. She will be missed and pray to have her spirit in our hearts, minds, and even our kitchens…until we meet again.
Love you so much Aunt Maria, you were a gift and a light to all of us!!
She was my very best friend. I miss her and will miss playing dominos every Monday morning. I also loved her good cooking.
Our family loved Tia María Esther, she used to visit us often when we were growing up. Always so friendly, we will sure miss her!
Una gran mujer amiga y querida tia, te quiero mucho,
Gracias por todo tu amor, ejemplo y servicio.
Un tiempo maravilloso fue tenerte entre nosotros .
Una vida eterna te espera
Mi tía María Esther estuvo de visita en Chihuahua hace varios años con nosotros y fueron días memorables. Disfrutamos mucho de su presencia. Una gran mujer y ejemplo a seguir.