Maria M. Molina

María Molina (Rivera-Rodríguez)

September 3, 1941 - June 28, 2026

With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of María Molina, who peacefully entered the presence of the Lord in her daughters arms at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on September 3, 1941, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, María lived a life defined not by what she owned, but by the joy and laughter she brought to others. She was raised in Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, before moving to New York City with her mother as a young teenager. She attended Theodore Roosevelt High School in the Bronx and later pursued her passion for beauty by attending Wilfred Beauty Academy in the 1970s. Known for her impeccable sense of style and fashion, María took great pride in her appearance, and her appreciation for beauty, hair, and personal style remained a defining part of her personality throughout her life.

In 1980, María settled in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where she built a career with UGI and later Capital Blue Cross before retiring. She later enjoyed several years in Florida before returning to Pennsylvania in 2015 to be closer to those she loved.

María's life was marked by quiet acts of service. She was a member of the Latin Hispanic Association of Spring Hill, volunteered as a Spanish interpreter at the Hispanic Center, Harrisburg, helping bridge communication for those in need, and dedicated her time to the 4Cs Child Care Information Services voucher program, assisting families in accessing childcare resources. She never sought recognition-she simply saw a need and stepped in to help.

Nothing, however, brought María to life quite like music. She loved to dance. The sounds of Puerto Rican music could fill a room, but it was her laughter that truly lit it up. She treasured her Puerto Rican heritage and shared it generously through her cooking. Family gatherings were often centered around her kitchen, where favorites like pasteles and arroz con dulce were prepared with love and enjoyed together.

María was also known for her playful spirit and was quite the prankster. She loved pulling harmless pranks on family and friends, and her contagious laughter could brighten even the hardest days. Christmas was her favorite season, not because of what she received, but because of the joy she found in giving. Whether searching for the perfect gift, decorating her home, or gathering loved ones around the table, she made every celebration feel special.

Her faith guided her throughout her life, bringing her peace and strength. She attended St. Francis Roman Catholic Church in her younger years and later worshiped at Dayspring Ministries whenever her health allowed. Today, her family finds comfort knowing she rests in the presence of the Lord she trusted.

Above all, María loved her family.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jaime Rivera-Tosado and Praxedes Rodriguez Hernandez Holcomb, and by her sister, Dolores Holcomb.

She is lovingly survived by her devoted companion of eighteen years, Enrique Rivera, whose faithful love and companionship brought her immense joy.

She also leaves behind her children: Ana Vincente (Vince), Eva Molina (Glen Parrish), Johnny Castagneto, Narcisse Colon (Lee), Stephanie Castagneto, Vaneeza Santiago (BJ), and Jessica Castagneto.

She was the proud grandmother of Johnny Castagneto, Mariah Bermudez, Johnny Torres, Giovanni Torres, Destiny González, Aubrey Pittman, Daviana González, Gia Thomas, and Jael Santiago, and her cherished great-grandmother Jedaniel Castagneto and Lucianna Torres, who brought endless smiles to her heart.

She is also survived by her siblings, Mary Marulanda and Douglas Holcomb, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who became family.

María will be remembered for her strength in adversity, her unwavering resilience, her generous heart, her contagious laughter, her playful spirit, and the deep love she had for her family. Her beauty may have first caught your attention, but it was her heart that left the lasting impression.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate María's life during a viewing at Dayspring Ministries

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in the promise that because of her faith in Christ, this goodbye is not forever.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23