Mary Helen Quarrels

Mary passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 11, 2026, at the age of 84, due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease in Rancho Cucamonga, California. She was born on January 5, 1942, in Francisco I. Madero, Coahuila, Mexico.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and dear friend. Her love, strength, and resilience touched the lives of all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard Quarrels; her brother, Herbert Mendez; and her parents, Heriberto and Matilda. Mary was the third of seven children and the oldest daughter in the family.

Mary retired in 2001 from Lanterman Developmental Center, where she served as a Psychiatric Technician, providing compassionate care to developmentally disabled individuals. Throughout her professional life, she also worked as a Medical Assistant, childcare worker, and Teaching Assistant, always dedicating herself to helping others. Her passion for the mental health and developmental disability field remained a defining part of her life.

In her retirement, Mary authored a book telling of her mother's family history. A Long Journey - La Vida De Mis Abuelos, was published in 2008, sharing the compelling history and strength of the Martinez family. What began as a search for family records from Mexico to the United States (needed for Mary's and her younger sibling's naturalization), after important documents were lost; became a lasting passion for research, writing, and publishing.

Mary and Leonard shared a love of travel and adventure, spending many joyful years exploring the country in their RV. They often met with family in Las Vegas and visited national parks, creating cherished memories along the way. Their many travels were made even more special with their beloved cats and dogs accompanying them.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her three children: Joseph Ruiz (Rosa), Anthony Ruiz (Christen), and Sandra Bird (Andy); her 13 grandchildren; and her 7 great-grandchildren. She treasured time with her family and friends, frequently traveled between Arizona and California to celebrate life’s special moments and milestones.

She will be remembered as a woman of extraordinary perseverance who overcame many of life’s hardships with grace and determination. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to raise her children, returned to school after the age of 40, and built a successful career after earning her nursing degree later in life. She also faced and overcame breast cancer with remarkable courage and strength.

Following the passing of her husband Leonard in 2017, her children recognized signs of Alzheimer’s disease and brought Mary from Arizona back to California to ensure she received the care and support she needed. The family extends special gratitude to her son Tony and daughter-in-law Christen Ruiz for their unwavering devotion, compassion, and assistance in managing Mary’s care. They made sure Mary was included in celebrations and family get-togethers; spending quality time together at their home and taking her to her favorite Mexican restaurants.

A viewing will begin at 10:30am on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Stone Funeral Home in Upland, CA. Services and remembrance will begin at 11:30am. All are welcome to join us as we honor, share stories and great memories, celebrating Mary's remarkable life and her positive impact on us all. The family will gather afterwards at Tony and Christen's home in Rancho Cucamonga. Mary will be laid to rest alongside her husband Leonard Quarrels at the Arizona National Memorial Veterans Cemetery.