Maria S. Castro

Maria "Dottie" Castro, age 78, a resident of Auburndale, passed away on August 5, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by her family.

Born on May 8, 1948, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico to Pablo Ortiz and Amelia Acevedo. Known as "Dottie," one of 10 children, she is survived by her siblings, Janet Centron, Charlie Ortiz, Maria Cedeno, and Modesta Ortiz Acevedo. She was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters Anna Miranda, Felydia Morales, Aurelia Vasquez, Carmen Ortiz and Nina Ciafordoni. Maria’s greatest pride was her children and grandchildren. Loving mother to Steven Castro (Janet) and Davien Castro. She was also a cherished grandmother to Samantha, Jacob, (Emily), Jessica, Joshua, Cristian, Josiah, Jersey and Jaxon. To each of them she was a source of wisdom, support and unconditional love. Each of them carries forth her legacy of kindness and strength, their lives forever shaped by Maria’s attentive care and boundless affection. Maria also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, family, friends and loved ones.

She found serenity amongst her garden’s blooms, tending to her plants with the same nurturing heart she showed her family and friends.

Maria was defined by her giving and loving spirit. Her warmth and kindness radiated through a generous heart, above all else, a provider of love and comfort. Throughout her life, she was deeply devoted to her family, and her gentle care became the enduring foundation upon which so many lives were nurtured.

Maria was a registered nurse in the City of Philadelphia, before moving to Auburndale. As a member of People’s Church, she enjoyed doing God’s work by spreading his word with the homeless, and missions’ trips to Honduras.

She loved the Lord with an unbound passion. To her, Jesus was the “Pearl of Great Price.”

She will be remembered for her strong faith and love of the Lord. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and the family who will continue to carry her light.