Maria Esther Quiroz Mata

After a valiant effort and surrounded by loved ones, Maria Esther Quiroz Mata passed away peacefully on August 3, 2024. “Teysi,” as she was affectionately known, was 43 years old.

Teysi is mourned by her sons, Alejandro (Angel) and Leonardo Watkins; her partner, Jason Shaw; her parents Aurora Mata and Ernesto Quiroz; a large and close-knit family of brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, plus a wide circle of devoted friends.

Teysi was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico on July 3, 1981, the youngest of seven in a busy, loving family. After completing high school and being crowned “Miss Guadalajara,” she travelled to Kelowna to further her education.  

Marriage and her two precious boys soon followed. Meanwhile, Teysi refined her professional-level skills in authentic Mexican cuisine and cake decorating.

In the years to come, even as Lupus took a heavy toll on her health, Teysi never lost her playful sense of humour. She was the light and life of any room she entered and a beautiful example of unconditional love to all who were lucky enough to know her.

A Graveside Service will happen on Wednesday, August 14, at 10 a.m. at the Westbank Cemetery. A reception will follow at her family home. Please ask the family or the funeral home for the address if it is unknown.