Maria T. Esparza, age 66 of Defiance, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born on April 24, 1959 to the late Charles and Anna (Ordaz) Esparza in Chicago, Illinois. Maria was a loving and caring mother and grandmother and will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Maria is survived by her son, Daniel Perez, Jr. of Defiance, her brothers, David Esparza, Joe Esparza and Tony Esparza, and her sisters, Rosie Prymicz, Mickey Esparza, Joanne Jimenez and Anna Resendez. She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Faith Perez and Caleb Romero. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Jerry, Simon and Carlos Esparza. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Memorial Service will follow at 7:00 pm at the funeral home, with Deacon Mark Homier officiating. Memorials are suggested to Zonta Club of Defiance.