Maria Desjardin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a vibrant, loving, and unforgettable woman, who left this world at the age of 71. Maria Desjardin passed away in her home in Buford, Georgia on Monday, March 30, 2026. Born in the Bronx, NY, to Angel and Nelida Gonzalez—both of whom predeceased her—Maria carried her roots with pride. She was a devoted and loving daughter who cared for her parents with remarkable compassion and selflessness. She was the kind of older sister everyone hopes for—fun, loving and full of joy, yet fiercely protective. After high school, she began working at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she was known for her incredible work ethic and dedication. She spent many years there before retiring at the age of 62. During her time at Mount Sinai, she built life long friendships with colleagues who became like family and brought immense joy to her life. It was through life’s journey that she met her husband, Sidney, who became her greatest love and partner of 43 years. Together, they built a life rich in love and happiness—full of vacations, music, dancing, and endless laughter. She lovingly embraced her role as a mother to three children-Damien, Lauren and her stepson Marc whom she loved as her own. Her family was the center of her world, and she created a home filled with endless support and encouragement. Later in life, Maria & Sidney made a home in Georgia. It is there that she built a new circle of friends who quickly became like family. Whether lifelong or newly made, Maria treasured her friendships deeply. Maria shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Lana—a tiny but feisty companion who adored her “mommy” just as much as Maria adored her. To know Maria was to know kindness, selflessness, and unwavering devotion. She had a natural gift for turning ordinary days into something special. There was always something to do, somewhere to be, or someone to laugh with—and Maria made sure of it. Her energy was contagious, lifting those around her and reminding everyone that life is meant to be lived fully, with excitement, laughter, and heart. She is survived by her husband: Sidney; children: Damien, Lauren, and Marc; grandchildren: Jada, Mia, and Jewel; and brothers: Angel and Edwin. Along with a wide circle of extended family and friends whose lives were made better by knowing her. Maria’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and connection. Though she will be deeply missed, her light lives on in her family, her friends, and in every life she touched. She will be forever remembered. Maria Desjardin, 71, of Buford, GA passed on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Celebration of Life Services will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 11:00 AM at our Gwinnett Chapel 914 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM at our Gwinnett Chapel 914 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, Gwinnett Chapel, 914 Scenic Hwy Lawrenceville, GA 30045. Livestream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/5838977 The Celebration of Life Service for Maria Desjardin will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM. This service will be recorded. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day.

Tributes

Maria Desjardin

December 30, 1954 - March 31, 2026