Maria Irene Alvarez

Maria "Irene" Alvarez, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on October 20, 1942, in Zapata, Texas. Irene married the love of her life, Antonio Alvarez, on September 4, 1971. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and love. A devout Catholic, Irene possessed an unwavering faith in God that served as the cornerstone of her entire life. She found profound peace in her daily prayers and the traditions of the Church, leaving her family with a beautiful example of Christian grace, devotion, and love.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Andres Carrillo and Trinidad Carrillo; her brothers, Donaciano "Chano" Carrillo, Alfredo Carrillo, and Agapito Carrillo; and her sister, Maria Socorro Carrillo.

Irene is survived by her devoted husband, Antonio Alvarez; her children, Rosa (Kenneth) Palmer, Juan (Danielle) Alvarez, Rocio (Doug) Wagner, Antonio (Maria) Alvarez Jr.; her brothers, Ted Carrillo, Edmundo Carrillo, and Jose Carrillo; along with 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Irene dedicated over 30 years of her life to childcare, lovingly caring for hundreds of children and providing them with a safe, nurturing, and loving environment. She was a devoted Band Mom, Sports mom, Girl Scout and Boy Scout mom, always supporting her children and family in every activity.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures-crafting, trying new recipes, shopping at garage sales and Goodwill, and hosting Easter egg hunts for Southlawn Elementary School in Liberal, Kansas. Irene also had a true green thumb and lovingly cared for her garden and flowers.

Irene will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, strong love for family, and the kindness she shared with everyone around her. Her legacy of love, care, and devotion will live on in all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Rosary is 9:30 am Monday, June 1, 2026 followed by a 10:00 am Funeral Mass both at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 1830 W Grand Ave., Haysville, KS 67060. A 2:00 pm graveside service will follow at the Larned Cemetery, Larned, KS.

Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Cecilia Catholic Church.