Mary Carmen Guerrero

Devoted to her faith, Mary Carmen and Ralph were lectors at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, St. Camillus Chapel, Miraculous Medal Church, and the Los Angeles Cathedral. For decades, Mary Carmen took it upon herself to dress the Infant of Prague at every church in the surrounding areas where her children reside, ensuring he was appropriately dressed for each liturgical season. Mary and Ralph were respected and lauded by many priests and parishioners alike for the love and compassion they exemplified.

Mary Carmen’s gentle affection was felt by us all. After her children were grown, she began to work as a teacher’s aide at Gate Street School for 25 years. Her 6 children brought out her creativity and joy, especially with her 30+ grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The smell of freshly baked blueberry muffins greeted them in the morning; warm towels were ready to embrace a grandchild after a bath; freshly baked chocolate chip cookies were a must, plus craft projects were a staple during each visit. Grandchildren were greeted with a, “Hello my darling,” each time we called, and we were blessed to have her and Ralph attend all recitals and sport games.

Throughout her life, Mary was inspired to create, and her class and flair added heart to her work. Whether oil painting, sewing, flower arranging, cooking or dancing, she found great fulfillment in giving of herself and embracing life. Her ideas and imaginative creations grew into a business with the tag line, “Give me the occasion, and I’ll do the rest.”

In her final days, Mary continued to celebrate milestones with her family. She adored her husband and would have celebrated 69 years of marriage this November. Until the very end, she called upon her faith to gain strength and peace, surrounded by Ralph, her children, and her priest.

Mary Carmen lived a beautiful life and her positive and joyful nature will live on in our hearts.