Mary L. Chavez's Obituary
Celebrating the Life of Mary Lena Chavez
Mary Lena Chavez passed away peacefully on September 20, 2021 in San Diego at the age of 75. Born in New Mexico on July 17, 1946, she was the third child and first daughter of Jennie Apodaca of Colorado and Estevan Padilla of New Mexico.
Mary graduated from Rio Grande High School in Albuquerque, NM. Mary was a devout Catholic and was an active parishioner of San Diego Mission de Alcala for many years.
Five words to best describe Mary are beautiful, loving, caring, strong, joyful.
Mary was very active and present in the life of her loved ones and the love and admiration the family always had for her was a direct reflection of that. She inspired the family to remain united and show love at all times. That was the kind of woman she was. She just had a way of always bringing everyone together.
Mary enjoyed making everything an experience for everyone around her. She is most known for her holiday decorating and her rice pudding and goulash.
For this reason, we think of her for every holiday, every Halloween costume, and every time we hear “rice pudding.” She never missed an opportunity to make every moment feel special.
Her favorite prayer was The Lord’s Prayer. She loved listening and dancing to Oldies but Goodies, Christmas music, classical and country music.
Mary is survived by her 3 children Carmela Perez of Poway, CA, Renee Chavez of Phoenix, AZ, and Richard Chavez of San Diego, CA; 14 Grandchildren, 9 Great Grandchildren, Sisters: Barbara and Jeanette (Husband Javier), and 7 Nieces and Nephews.
What’s your fondest memory of Mary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Mary?
Share a story where Mary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Mary you’ll never forget.
How did Mary make you smile?
