Maria E. Novoa, beloved wife, loving mother and grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend left us on November 26, 2016. Altamonte Springs was her hometown of 40 years.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Gonzalo Julio Novoa, her five children - Cristina Novoa, Pilar Novoa-McGee, Alfonso Novoa, Stella Michaud and Sandra Silver; her seven grandchildren - Jessica Michaud, Nicolas Anselmo, Kyle Silver, Zachary Silver, Jaclyn Silver, Andrea Novoa and Alejandro Novoa, her siblings - Misael Guataquira, Jose D. Guataquira, Mardoqueo Guataquira and Nelly Guataquira from Bogota, Colombia. In addition, she had extended family, nieces and nephews in Bogota, Colombia.
She was born in Turmeque, Boyaca, Colombia on a beautiful August day to Sara and Agustin Guataquira.
She was a homemaker, caregiver and a beautiful human being.
She loved to do many things especially cook for all of her family on Sundays, the Family day.
Sunday is the special day set aside, time for the family to come together, to eat, talk, laugh and love; a tradition she wanted all of us to keep.
She loved life and lived everyday to the fullest. She loved her plants and was admired for her beautiful aloes and flowers surrounding her home. She also enjoyed listening to music and watching cooking shows.
Most important to her was spending time with her children and grandchildren, her pride and joy.
She was also a much appreciated friend and neighbor, always thoughtful and mindful of others. And always available to render a listening ear and provide a helping hand.
MAMITA
Thank you so much for all you did for us and all you sacrificed.
You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.
We love you so much. Our hearts are broken but we will honor you by living the lives you wanted us to live every day. You will be with us always forever in our hearts.

Our family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone for your love and support