Graveside
Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, Utah 84092Tuesday Oct 21, 2025: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
1945 ~ 2025
Tuesday Oct 21, 2025: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Noemi Mara Willis passed away on September 28, 2025, along with her best friend and husband, James Willis, in a tragic plane crash in Tomball, Texas.
Mara was born to Vincente and Lilana Esquivel in Del Rio, Texas, on August 28, 1945. She attended San Felipe High School in Del Rio and graduated in 1964. After moving to Salt Lake City, Mara continued her education and earned an associate’s degree in marketing from Salt Lake Community College.
Mara had three children during her first marriage. A lifelong learner, she was endlessly curious about the world around her. Following the passing of her son in December 2023, she became deeply interested in religion and the afterlife. Her stop in Tomball, Texas, that fateful weekend was to attend a speaking engagement related to those interests.
Mara left a lasting impression on everyone she met, forming lifelong friendships wherever she went. She believed in spreading kindness, always looking for ways to help others, learn new things, and share her knowledge. She was an incredible wife, mother, friend, and grandmother—devoted to her family above all else. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent gardening, adventuring, and learning with them.
Mara is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, son, and other beloved family members. She is survived by her son, daughter, beautiful grandchildren, and numerous extended family members. She will also be deeply missed by the many friends, neighbors, and acquaintances who were fortunate to know her.
Her one true love, best friend, and inseparable companion will be laid to rest beside her.
Services for Jim and Mara Willis
Viewing - 10/20 6-8 pm
Funeral - 10/21 10:00 am
Location - 10860 S 3200 W, South Jordan, Utah
Graveside - 10/21 12:00 pm
Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, Utah
To watch the funeral services live via zoom please click the blue "Watch Services" tab at the top of the obituary.
To Mara's family I send my condolences. Mara was my aunt. Her dad was my grandfather.
We lost track with Mara several years ago but she was never forgotten by her extended
family in Texas. I'm including my email in case someone would like to contact me
keller3200@aol.com
I am so sorry for the loss of Mara and Jim. Spent several occasions with them when she worked at IFreedom
I loved it when she did her card readings. Her and Jim were so fun and kind. RIP Mara and Jim together here and now in heaven. 🥺🙏💔
My deepest condolences on your loss. Prayers for the whole family.
I am so sad to hear my beautiful friend has passed but find great peace knowing she went with her beloved Jim. Mara not only married us has also been a great friend for many years. I will miss our long phone calls, until we meet again sweet Mara.
Sorry to hear about your parents passing love them both my dad was your moms half brother Jose were out of Texas hope we can meet sometime you can text me sometime at 682-226-9804 God bless
Our deepest condolences to your family. Your mom is my dad (Jose) half sister from Fort Worth Texas, Wanted to say that my mom told me. That your mom named me (Ed) please feel free to call us anytime God bless .