Mary Leal Garza

Mary was born March 1, 1928 to Manuel and Florentina Leal in Ricardo, Texas.

She grew up in Alamo, Texas where she resided until marrying the love of her life, Gilbert Garza. They lived and raised their three children in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Mary was the epitome of a matriarch. She loved her family like her life depended on it. She was the nurturer, the chef, the nurse, the fashionista, the counselor, the handy woman, the teller of stories and the keeper of secrets, to name a few. Mary loved to read, do crossword puzzles, sew, cook, and especially spend time with family.

She taught us all so much about unconditional love, compassion, and forgiveness. Her life left a lasting impression on all that knew her and her passing will leave a hole in our hearts that will never be filled. We are comforted knowing she has joined her loving husband of 67 years in heaven. Together they will watch over our family as our guardian angels.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents Manuel and Florentina Leal, her sister Victoria Leal, her grandson Raul B. Garza, Jr., and her devout husband Gilbert G. Garza. She is survived by her sisters, Emelia Leal, Carmel Leal, Josie Barrera, her brother Gustavo Leal, daughter Belinda Hondros (Steve), sons, Gilbert E. Garza (Shay) and Raul B. Garza, Sr. (Rosalva); seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family will receive friends between 5:00-8:00 p.m., with a rosary service scheduled from 7:00- 7:45 p.m. on Friday, October 4, 2019 at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston Texas. The funeral service will take on Saturday, October 5, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home followed by committal service.