Obituary of Lucy L. Ma

Lucy L. Ma, born November 22, 1937 in China, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Sunday, March 07, 2021 in Austin, TX at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Lucy is survived by her daughters, Dr. Helen Ma and Tina Hibbs; son in-law, Curtis; son, Francis Ma; daughter in-law, Tereza; grand-daughter, Maya; six siblings and their spouses; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter Ma; her parents, Louis and Teresa Lou; and her mother in- law, Mei Ching Wong.

Lucy immigrated from China to Mississippi with her beloved late husband, Peter.  After a few years she was widowed and left to raise three small children on her own.  As a devoted mother, she worked 22 years as a grocer to support her family including her parents and mother in-law.  She was a loving and dedicated caretaker; she was selfless and always put the needs of others before hers. Although her life was not easy, she persevered to aid her children through college and post graduate studies with the support of family, friends, and her church community.  Lucy’s strong faith in God helped her to face all of life’s challenges.  She was a devout catholic and a member of the St. Elizabeth Church in Clarksdale, MS and later a parishioner of the St. Louis Church in Austin.  During her 24 years of retirement in Texas, she enjoyed spending time with family and friends, shopping, and traveling abroad.

Lucy was a friend to all whom she encountered. Her warmth, love, and compassion shines through her beautiful smile. We are proud to call her our mother, mentor, and inspiration.  Mom will be greatly missed.

A private graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Austin Memorial Park Cemetery, 2800 Hancock Dr., Austin, TX 78731.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made in memory of Lucy L. Ma to The Michael J. Fox’s Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.