Maria Lydia DeLeon

Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at her home, with her family at her side. Age 88 years.

The daughter of the late Jesus and Antonia (Morales) Cardenas, Maria was born on March 28, 1938, in Mission, Texas. She married the love of her life, Renato Saenz DeLeon on June 17, 1996. They shared many wonderful years together. He preceded her in death on May 5, 2011. Maria was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she served as an usher. Maria had a true passion for walking. She treasured spending time with her family and especially loved cooking for those she cared about. A talented and creative woman, Maria enjoyed sewing, quilting, and a variety of other crafts, always pouring her heart into everything she made. Known for her generous spirit, she was always willing to help others and had a remarkable ability to find a way to make things happen. Her kindness, determination, and love for family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

Surviving are her children, Michael Rodriguez, Norma (Dan) Kleinbriel, Lena (John) Clark, Mary Rodriguez (Juan), Fela Rogriguez, Freddie Rodriguez (Kathy Crispin), Luciano (Christian) Rodriguez, Juan (Susana) Rodriguez, Nerio (Dannielle) Rodriguez; 35 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren with one on the way; 12 sisters and 6 brothers. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 936 N. 6th Ave, Saginaw, MI 48601. Rev. Fr. Francis Voris, OFM Cap will officiate with cremation to follow. Friends may visit the family from 9:00 a.m. until the time of mass on Friday at the church. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Joseph Catholic Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Please share your condolences and memories with the family at the visitation, service, or online at www.casefuneralhome.com.