Mary Helen Botello

Mary Helen (Palos) Botello of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the age of 88. A beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mary lived a life defined by devotion to her family, a strong work ethic, and a lifelong love of learning.

Mary was born on June 26, 1937, in Monterrey, Mexico, to Antonio Palos and Guadalupe Hernandez. At six years old, she immigrated with her family to the United States, where she spent her early childhood working alongside them as an agricultural migrant worker. Through sacrifice and perseverance, the family eventually settled in Harlingen, Texas, giving Mary the opportunity to focus on her education. She went on to become the first Mexican American to graduate with honors from Harlingen High School.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Antonio and Arturo; her sisters, Oralia and Mercedez; and her beloved “soul dog,” Coco.

After high school, Mary married Donaciano H. Botello and moved to Houston, where they raised four children together. She is survived by her daughters and sons, Elizabeth, Robert, Noemi, and David. She was especially proud of her many grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Mary loved entertaining and will always be remembered for bringing her family together. In her free time, she also enjoyed dancing, traveling, and gardening.

Mary was a girl boss before the expression even existed. She dedicated 50 years to nursing, caring for patients across various hospitals throughout Houston. She also worked as an occupational nurse for the Foley’s Department Store warehouse, where she treated on site injuries and managed workers’ compensation cases. Always looking for ways to help others, Mary was an American Red Cross volunteer.

In her later years, Mary served as a nurse supervisor and office manager at Nephrology Physicians of Houston, where she worked with pride until her retirement. She helped modernize the practice by introducing computers and improving operations, contributing to the practice’s growth.

Mary was never afraid to speak up or take charge. Even toward the end of her life, Mary’s strong willed and decisive personality never faded. The family extends their deepest gratitude to her devoted caregiver, Maria, for her years of compassion, patience, and loving care.

A viewing service will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Chapel of Eternal Peace at Forest Park, located at 2454 S. Dairy Ashford from 1 to 8 p.m. with the rosary prayer at 6 p.m. Mary will be buried at the chapel’s cemetery grounds on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.