Macrina Hamrick, 57, of Rockford, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on May 30, 1969, in Mexico, the cherished daughter of Leovigildo Bautista and Senorina Martinez Bernal.Macrina was the heart and light of her family. She had a beautiful soul that touched everyone she met. Her love was unconditional, her kindness was endless, and her presence made every moment brighter.

Macrina married the love of her life, Freddie B. Hamrick Jr., on March 16, 2001. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, companionship, and many beautiful memories. They treasured simply being together— making each other laugh, enjoying motorcycle rides, taking trips, and sharing life's many adventures side by side. Freddie preceded Macrina in death in May 2011, but the love they shared never left her heart. While her passing leaves an immeasurable emptiness in the hearts of those who loved her, there is comfort in imagining Macrina and Freddie together once again, reunited with the love and laughter they shared so beautifully in life.

Macrina found her greatest joy in her family—especially in her four beloved grandchildren, who were the sunshine of her life. Whether she was cheering the loudest at her granddaughter's cross county and track meets, soccer games, celebrating their victories, comforting them in hard times, or simply making them laugh, her love for them was unwavering and immeasurable.

She was also incredibly proud of her son. She took great pride in the man he became, in all that he accomplished throughout his life, and in the beautiful family he created. Watching him build a life and family of his own brought her tremendous happiness and filled her heart with pride. Her love, encouragement, and unwavering support were always with him, and the special bond they shared as mother and son was something she treasured deeply.

Macrina had a gift for making life special. She loved getting dressed up to go out with her friends, enjoying good food, sharing stories, going out for walks, and shopping together. She had a warm, joyful spirit and a beautiful smile that could light up any room. She was always the one others could count on—offering a listening ear, a helping hand, and words of encouragement.

Her generosity, compassion, and genuine care for others left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

At home, Macrina created a place filled with love, laughter, and comfort.

She found peace in her garden, where she lovingly tended to her flowers and found beauty in the simple things. She had a remarkable talent in the kitchen, cooking delicious meals made from the heart and always making sure no one left her table hungry. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome and loved.

Family was everything to Macrina. She never missed an opportunity to visit her loved ones in Mexico (mother, siblings, nieces, and nephews), and those bonds remained strong throughout her life. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and she found comfort and joy in attending St. Patrick Catholic Church with her family, where she felt closest to God and her community.

Macrina is survived by her loving mother, Senorina Martinez Bernal; her devoted son, Cesar Cardona (Elizabeth Castillo); her treasured grandchildren, Adaliz, Sophia, Lizette, and Lionel; her sisters, Magdalena, Carmela, Cecilia, and Ana; her brothers, Gabriel and Carlos; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored her. She is preceded in death by her spouse, Freddie B. Hamrick Jr., and her father, Leovigildo Bautista. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61103. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 2505 School St., Rockford, IL 61101, followed by interment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial to the family.

To share memories and condolences online, please visit Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD.