Maria "Maggie" Gomez Sands, BHS '49 (1930-2025)

My name is Emily Tempest, and I am the granddaughter of Maria M. Sands (Maggie Gomez) from BHS Class of 49’. Maria M. Sands passed away about 2 weeks ago on March 20, 2025 at the age of 94. She passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family. She lived a long and amazing life, and she often talked about how great her High School years were. She made many lifetime friends because of BHS and always shared those memories. 

OBITUARY

Maria M. Sands (née Gomez), a lifelong Burbank resident, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Born in El Paso, TX, she moved to Burbank at a young age and built a life filled with family and joy. Maria was free-spirited, the life of the party, and had an unbreakable bond with her siblings. She was ambitious, loving, and always made sure everyone felt comfortable and happy. She was blessed with a big family, having four children, six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and four great great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. One of her greatest achievements was working at The El Chiquito and eventually owning the restaurant alongside her siblings, creating a place filled with love, community, and lots of fun. She touched countless lives with her generosity and warmth, from her Burbank High School days to her beloved holiday tradition of collecting Santas. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and spirit will live on in all who knew her.

NOTE

Herminia Gomez Dilbeck, BHS '46 (1928-2021) was Maggie's sister and Bob Gomez, BHS '48 (1929-2022) was their brother as was Eddie Gomez, BHS '49 (1931-1968).