Maria Julia Mercado

Maria Julia Mercado passed away peacefully at her home in Jersey City on March 5, 2026 at the age of 82.

Born on July 21, 1943 in Llallagua, Bolivia, she was the beloved daughter of Jose S. Lopez Vidal and Hilaria Garcia Tirado. Maria Julia spent her early years in Bolivia before moving to Jersey City with her family in 1972, where she remained for the rest of her life.

Maria Julia dedicated her life to helping others. In Bolivia she worked as a nurse, and after settling in the United States she continued her commitment to service as a case worker with the Hudson County Division of Social Services, where she assisted many individuals and families in need.

Above all else, Maria Julia was devoted to her family. She took great pride in her children and in her Bolivian heritage. Her home was always open to family members who were new to Jersey City, and she was known for offering guidance, support, and encouragement to those around her.

She enjoyed spending time with her family, caring for the many pets she had throughout her life, and helping others whenever she could. Maria Julia was known for her strong personality, deep sense of responsibility, and unwavering support for the people she loved.

She is survived by the children she loved, Alvaro Mercado, Alex Mercado and his wife Lerio, Oswaldo Mercado, Paula Hak and her husband Brian Hak, and Bernard Mercado. She was a proud grandmother to Esperanza, Soledad, and Rommel. She is also survived by her sister Emelia Balderrama Lopez.

Maria Julia was predeceased by her husband Gonzalo Mercado and her brother Bernardino Lopez Garcia.

Funeral services will be held privately by the family.

Maria Julia will be remembered for her strength, her generosity, and the deep love she had for her family.