Mary Navarro Padilla

Mary Padilla accepted Our Lord’s invitation to begin her new celestial life on May 20, 2014. Mary was born in Dallas on April 13, 1929 to Ester Navarro Padilla and Diego Padilla. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother John Padilla. Mary is survived by her sisters, Margaret Luna, Frances Ramon and brother Tony Navarro Padilla. By God’s grace, Mary was fortunate to enjoy 16 nieces and nephews as well as over 20 grand nephews and nieces. After attending Crozier Tech High School, Mary began a career in the garment industry in Dallas. She was employed by Justin McCarty Company, Donovan Galvani and Howard Wolf where she organized and coordinated all shipping orders throughout the United States. She was recognized in numerous company publications for her professionalism and stellar performance. Mary served as a model employee to all her colleagues. When her brothers were taken to serve in the military, Mary accepted the responsibility of supporting the household. Due to her success, she demonstrated that, given the opportunity, women could succeed and make a living to support their household. As a result, she served as a progressive role model for all her nieces and nephews. She not only held her job positions but was asked to follow the staff when the companies were transitioned. Mary was able to enjoy the privilege of homeownership, health insurance and independence thanks to the ability to have a career in a wonderful industry. She missed her colleagues and her job when she retired. Miss Mary enjoyed reading the local news, was eager to discuss fashion trends and was an excellent cook. Having lived through the Depression, World War II and the Korean War, Mary was ready to help any relative find a job and offer them shelter at her home while they were worked to get on their feet. She and her Mother would introduce the newcomers to the American way of life, famous American Movie Classics, and delicious Mexican and American food! Mary enjoyed traveling to Michoacan, Mexico to reconnect with her family. She often took friends and young nieces and nephews along to expose them to the beauty of her culture and heritage. Her goal was to bridge the gap between cultures through real world experiences. Mary Padilla was the atypical woman of her era. She left each morning with a goal to accomplish using her family values and the rich opportunities she knew awaited her. She will be remembered always and her gracious, generous actions will serve as an example to not only her family but for all others who read her story. She is one in a million. Loved by all and called by God to return home. Regrettably, Mary suffered from Rheumatoid arthritis. Before she passed, she asked that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the American Rheumatoid Arthritis Association in her name. Thank you.