Maria Refugio Palacios Sifuentes, affectionately known as Mary, 86, of Sparta passed away July 22, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her family.
Mary was born July 5, 1939, in Navajo, New Mexico, to Manuel and Refugio Perez Palacios.
She had a work career that spanned from collecting tickets at the movie theater, in San Jose, California, to making Levis, to ultimately working as a bakery clerk. She loved her Lord and was happy to share her faith. Mary was proud of the accomplishment of leading many people to the Lord through her faith. However, her proudest accomplishment was the title of Grandma. Her grandchildren lit up her life, and she followed her daughter and family from Oregon to Tennessee to be with them.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, John Jeffrey Sifuentes, and 21 siblings.
Survivors include her husband of 68 years, Juan “John” Sifuentes; daughter, Melanie Voorhees and husband Hank; four grandchildren, Josh Voorhees, Jeremy Voorhees, Kaylee Voorhees, Krista Voorhees; two brothers, Manuel Palacios, Danny Palacios and wife Delores; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with Mary’s cremation, and no public services are planned.
Hunter Funeral home was in charge of arrangements.
