Mary Helen Armenta

Mary “Helen” Armenta, 84, of Glendale, Arizona, passed away on December 22, 2025. In the days and hours leading up to her passing, she was surrounded by her loving husband, John Gutierrez Armenta, children Shirley Armenta (Tracy Stroder), Sarah Armenta, Laura “Lori” Armatage, and grandchildren Marah Armenta, Joaquin Armatage and Solana Armatage.

Helen was born on September 23, 1941, to parents Ernest and Virginia Burruel of Phoenix, Arizona. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Virginia “Genie” Burruel Adkins. She is survived by her remaining younger siblings, Maggie Tooley, Polly Zubia, Ernie Burruel, Jr., and Rick Burruel.

Helen was an exceptional cook and gracious host of large family gatherings throughout the years. Christmas Day open house and New Year’s Eve parties were attended by family near and far. The eldest of her parents’ children, she was a natural, quiet leader often rising to managerial positions throughout her work years. She instilled leadership qualities, a solid work ethic, and duty to family in her three daughters. During retirement she dedicated her time to caring for and transporting her grandchildren. She was devoted to her husband, John, of 64 years. She believed in his talent and skill, encouraging him to start his own business, John’s Custom Upholstery, Phoenix, Az. Through their combined hard work, Helen enjoyed planning family vacations with their daughters and later their grandchildren. La Jolla and Honolulu were family favorites. Helen also relished her time traveling with her husband. In their early years, Las Vegas was a favorite for their shows and glitzy dress. In later years, Helen and John traveled to Mexico, the Hawaiian Islands, New York, and anywhere that the ASU Sun Devils football team played.

A funeral service will be held at St Helen Catholic Church, located at 5510 W Cholla St, Glendale, Arizona, 85304, United States. The service is scheduled for January 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.