The world became a bit brighter when Maria Asunción Bustillos was born to parents Reyes and Lupe Bustillos in El Paso, Texas. Maria spent her early years in Texas before laying down roots in California. Her family spent some years in Los Angeles before moving to Pittsburg, and then Maria spent the majority of her adult life living, working, and raising her daughter in Concord before returning to Pittsburg.

Though she had only one child, she was called Mama and Grandma by many. Countless souls breathed a little easier, and slept a bit sounder because of her kindness, compassion, empathy, and limitless generosity. No stomach went hungry, nor throat was parched when crossing her threshold. If you wanted to hear the truth—Maria was one who would tell it to you—she was the salt of the earth, and her smile could spark joy and warm the heart.

As the eldest child of seven, Maria was innately feisty, and fiercely protective of those she loved. Though you may not have known it, or knew you needed it, she would pray for you without ceasing. Her faith was her foundation and sustained her throughout her pilgrimage on this earth. She was a member of the Guadalupana Society, Maria Auxiliadora, and Cursillistas. De Colores!

Maria is survived by her daughter, Chelo Gonzalez; siblings Theresa B. Arzate, Anna B. Trevino, Frances B. Pita, and Ruben Bustillos; Frankie Bustillos-Smith and Aaron Leake who called her Grandma, and Olivia and Vivian Keithlin - her granddaughters through baptism. She is reunited with her parents Reyes and Guadalupe (Marin) Bustillos, and her brothers Carlos and Frank Bustillos.

Family and friends are invited to join in honoring Maria's life on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Pittsburg.  The Rosary will be recited at 11:00 am, and the Funeral Mass will begin at 12:00 pm.