Maria Acchiardo's Obituary
Maria Angelica Acchiardo, 88, passed away peacefully at her home in Memphis, TN, on January 25, 2023. “La Queka,” as she was known to her close friends, was born in Curico, in the Maipu Valley of Chile. The daughter of Rene and Lola Rojas and the oldest of three sisters, Angelica earned a nursing degree and worked at a local hospital. It was there that she met and married the love of her life of 63 years, Dr. Sergio Acchiardo. This love they shared held them together when Sergio’s medical work relocated the family to the United States in 1967. Angelica loved her family fiercely and was extremely proud of the legacy she and Sergio established after their move.
A devout Catholic, Angelica and her family were members of Holy Rosary Church & School, and later, Holy Spirit and St. Louis Church. She volunteered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for 20 years as a translator and advocate, receiving The President Bush Points of Light Award. Her dedication to St. Jude led to countless relationships with families from South America, many of whom she maintained as lifelong friendships. She was also a member of Madonna Circle and several other charitable organizations.
Angelica and Sergio joined a Spanish book club and were avid tango dancers in their later years. Her warmth, sense of humor, and beauty endeared her to all. She was a wonderful cook, loved to entertain and was most importantly to her, a beloved Mother and Grandmother.
As the matriarch she lovingly commanded attendance at family lunch in East Memphis for more than 60 years. Every Sunday after Mass, whether it was Mexican or “La Pizza,” she elegantly presided over the gatherings turned out in her mink coat, Chanel sunglasses, and designer stilettos. She epitomized fashion her entire life. Even in her sickness she insisted on coordinated outfits.
Angelica’s warmth naturally attracted people to her. She was gracious and generous with everyone she met.
Angelica will be greatly missed by her five children; Maria (Dan), Rod (Lisa), Sole (Jim), Tino, and Chris. In addition, she leaves her beloved 11 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She also leaves her dear sister and best friend, from Santiago, Chile; Maria Luisa (Loncho), and adoring nieces and nephews.
A visitation and celebration of life will be held Sunday, January 29, 2023, from 4-6 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 30, 2023, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 4851 Park Avenue.
Mass intentions will be offered for Angelica at St. Theresa The Little Flower Catholic Church, 1644 JAckson Ave. on Saint Valentine’s Day, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023.
What’s your fondest memory of Maria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Maria?
Share a story where Maria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Maria you’ll never forget.
How did Maria make you smile?