Mary Gonzalez

It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Helen Gonzales announces her peaceful passing on July 5, 2024, in her hometown of Waco, Texas, at the age of 83. Mary Helen was born on August 26, 1940, in Waco, TX, to Saragosa Cantù and Consuelo Romero, who have both preceded her in death.

Mary Helen was a cherished daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and dedication to family and community. She attended Waco High School, where she began to carve out a life filled with creativity and service to others.

Mary Helen was a beloved member of the Waco community, actively participating in several organizations including the Waco Housing Authority, Waco Family Medicine, and Hiz Houze Waco’s Hip Hop Church. Her passion for service extended to her volunteering efforts at her apartment complex, North Crest Court, and her devoted work in the nursery at her church. Mary Helen had a special talent for drawing and painting, and her loving and funny nature endeared her to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Saragosa Cantù and Consuelo Romero; as well as her sisters, Carmen R. Cantù and Christine C. Morales; brother, Patrick Cantù; daughter, Barbara Jimenez; and son, Donald Rodriguez.

Mary Helen is survived by her siblings, James H. Cantu and Sister Mary L. De Luna; daughter, Gloria Salazar; and son-in-law Glen Jimenez. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Donna Salazar, Monica Salazar, Fernando Salazar, Glenda Salazar, Laura Garcia, Olivia Jimenez, and Stephanie Jimenez. Her family tree extends further to 7 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

Mary Helen's warmth, humor, and artistic spirit will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Visitation will be held at Oakcrest Funeral Home in Waco, TX, from 6:00-8:00 pm on July 11, 2024. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm on July 12, 2024, at the same location, followed by a procession to Oakwood Cemetery. Oakcrest Funeral Home is assisting the family during this time. Family, friends, and all who knew her are invited to join in celebrating the beautiful life she lived.

Mary Helen Gonzalez’s journey on this earth has come to an end, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her loved ones. We find comfort in knowing she is now at peace, reunited with our Father in Heaven and those she loved and missed dearly.