Maria Gonzalez

Maria Elena “Mary Helen” Gonzalez was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and caring sister and friend.  She left this world too soon at the age of 71 on January 2, 2022, surrounded by loved ones.

Mary Helen was born in Kingsville, TX to Manuel and Janie Gomez on July 17, 1950.  She was raised in Driscoll where she attended elementary and junior high school. She attended Bishop High School and graduated in 1968. She met the love of her life, Agustin “Tino” Gonzalez at a Saturday night dance.  She loved going to the dances with Tino, and she spoke fondly of how she would sew a new dress every week for her Saturday night dates with him.  The two were married on August 16, 1969, in Driscoll, TX at St. James Mission Catholic Church where she was still an active member until her death.  She also worked as a teacher’s aide for Driscoll Independent School District for almost 30 years.

Mary Helen and her husband raised four sons.  Her husband and her sons were truly her pride and joy.  She was “all about family.”  She was the caretaker, organizer, cheerleader, defender, and protector of her family.  She emphasized God first and was truly the strength of her family. Sunday mass was important to her, and so was the gathering at her house afterward in which she cooked a huge breakfast for all of her boys and their families that included EVERYONE’S favorites.  She loved spending time in the kitchen and preparing delicious meals for the family.  She also hosted Christmas dinners, birthday celebrations, and numerous other occasions by cooking the meal and was happiest when everyone was at home. She was always first to volunteer “Let me bring the cake!” to every occasion, as well.

Mary Helen was an avid sports fan.  As a mom, she attended all of her children’s events and games and was usually the first one there!  She raised very active sons that kept her very busy.  This continued with all of her grandchildren, as well, and she even loved to watch her sons coach when they were older. “Who is playing this week?” was always her question on Sunday so she could plan to be at all events, if possible.  When she wasn’t supporting her children and grandchildren, Mary Helen cheered on the Cowboys and the Yankees, as well!

In addition to the great love she had for her husband, sons, and grandchildren, Mary Helen was kind to everyone she knew.  She always went the extra mile to help others.   One of her most famous phrases was, “Don’t worry!  I’ll take care of it!”…and she did!  She organized meals for those that were sick, suffering loss, or were planning a celebration.  And she always asked, “What can I do to help?” to everyone she knew.  She was generous, caring, loving, and kind.

Mary Helen is preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Janie Gomez.

Mary Helen is survived by her husband of 52 years, Agustin Gonzalez, and her four sons Michael Gonzalez (Judi) of Kingsville, TX, and Mark Gonzalez (Dorine), Matthew Gonzalez (Nena), and Martin Gonzalez (Rhonda) all of Driscoll, TX.  She is also survived by her sister, Esmeralda Gomez of Driscoll, TX and her brother Pete Gomez (Misty) of Denton, TX, and her 12 grandchildren:  Danielle Barnes (Jordan) of Van Alstyne, TX, Kristen Gonzalez of Arlington, TX, Jordan Gonzalez of Kingsville, TX, Meaghan Gonzalez of San Antonio, TX, Maranda Gonzalez, Mark Gonzalez Jr. (Marky), Alyssa Gonzalez, Matthew Gonzalez, Jr., and Sarina Gonzalez all of Driscoll, TX, Adley Canales (Anyssa) of  Marble Falls, TX, SSG Caleb Canales currently stationed in Fort Irwin, CA, and Bryana Canales of Frisco, TX.    She also had one great-grandchild, Kora Canales of Marble Falls, TX. She is also survived by nephews Christopher Gomez of Driscoll, TX, and Terrance Gomez of Corpus Christi.

Pallbearers will be Matthew Gonzalez Jr., Mark Gonzalez Jr., Jordan Gonzalez, Terrance Gomez, Adley Canales, and Christopher Gomez.

The family of Mary Helen wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Doctor’s Regional Hospital and the numerous nurses and doctors that cared for her.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 5th at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary with the rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm. Funeral mass will be held at 10 am on Thursday, January 6th at St. James Mission Catholic Church in Driscoll, TX.  with Father Luke officiating.   Burial will follow at Cemeterio De La Luz in Driscoll. Arrangements are by Turcotte Piper Mortuary.