Maria Phuong Nguyen

I, Maria Phuong Thi Tuy Nguyen, was born on May 06, 1968 and was given the name Maria Nguyen Thi Tuy Phuong by my birth mother which I was named after a very popular singer.

After the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975, I moved to Cai San Rach Gia with my mother began doing agricultural work. As a young child, we were very poor and went through many hardships. Through many hardships, I understood that my how life was set for me and that I had to continue to make the best out of it. By helping out my mother to feed the family, I did not hesitate doing any work my mother asked me to. For example: selling tickets at the bus stops, in the café with so many humiliation and talked down from everyone. Despite the humiliation and the talked down from others, I knew I had to continue with sales to help my mother putting food on the table.

Growing up in Viet Nam as half American and half Vietnamese, I had to face many challenges, discriminations, humiliations, and teasing, but I continue to face them with the only defense I had “ my smiles and my senses”.

On December 11, 1990, my family and I fled Viet Nam and ended up in The Phillipines for about 7 months then we were accepted into the US and made Las Vegas our home on 06/26/1991. There, I was reunited with my biological father Claire J Rutell after 16 years of separation.

The most happiest day was the day I married my husband Chien Le on December 27, 1993. We were introduced by Ms. Phuong. My husband and I had three beautiful children. Our daughters My An and Renee, and our son Michael. My co workers would tell me I am easy and friendly with everyone. At my Church, I most enjoyed getting involved with all the activities with the Church Members like the Choir, The Marriage Groups, The Association of Catholic Mothers Groups, Little Souls Society Groups at Our Lady of La Vang Church.

I was loved by everyone who knew me and the life I led by my friendliness and smiles. In my family, I would always try to obey my parents and would do anything for them especially caring for our elderly mother. In my mediate family, I am loyal to my beloved husband and would live my life for my three children.

With our relatives, I would try to give as many respects to everyone so we could have good relationships. I was 48 with many responsibilities and a full life ahead when God called me. My battle with cancer had taken a toll on my health and my strength. I said to God, “God, if you really want me to leave this world, then this is my destiny”.

On my last days, I really believe that God will save my body and soul and that I did not hesitate to leave. With the help of Our Blessed Virgin Mary who is my Patron Saint, I am willing to obey God in Heaven to take me. I am now no longer in pain and very at peace.

With Faith in God, I know I will be with God in Heaven. Please continue to pray for me, Maria Nguyen Thi Tuy Phuong. I will pray for all of you for many God’s Blessings. Thank you for all of your prayers.

Son Nguyen