Early morning January 8th our mother, sister, aunt, grandma, nina and friend Mary Estella Gonzalez passed away peacefully in her home of natural causes.

Mary was born April 7, 1932 in Santa Monica, CA.  She was the first child of Consuelo and Jesus Macias.  Her siblings included Jesus (Jr.),  Evangeline, Frank, Ruben, Margarita and Mercedes. Mary married Lucio Gonzalez at a young age and had four boys Michael, Gregory, Javier and Richard.  Her grandchildren that she loved dearly included Eric, Christian, Brandon, Priscilla, Vanessa, Antoni & Santiago.

Mary devoted herself to her children, and raised them as best she could in West Los Angeles.  Although it was not as affordable, she knew the community was best for her family compared to other areas.  As a young proud mother bringing up four boys, she worked tirelessly, never complaining.  From knitting and sewing from scratch The Wizard of Oz costumes for Halloween, hosting many birthday parties and staying up late to help with their homework.

Mary started her career as a bank teller with Security Pacific Bank.  Eventually after lots of hard work, she was proud to be promoted to an Escrow Officer and took great pride in this achievement.  She would go on to serve many people over the years including Hollywood stars like Zsa Zsa Gabor and James Cagney.  Mary emulated the stars she serviced and dressed the part with clothing bought on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or The Westside Pavilion where she loved to shop!  Mary's drive to be successful continued at home where she also worked with Amway, Tupperware and Mary Kay, throwing great parties for her clients, family and friends.  She eventually refocused her efforts and worked feverishly as an Activity Director for two senior centers in Beverly Hills.  She loved seeking out top performing acts for the many tenants. They loved and appreciated her passion and dedication she brought, to help them truly enjoy their golden years.

She retired in Poway, CA, where she spent the last 10 years of her life. She met Alexa, listened to her favorite music and sang often with her.  She liked going for walks, reading the LA Times, watching the Lakers and Dodgers, eating lunch with her sons, cooking for her grandchildren and line dancing with friends at the local community center. She often reminisced about the past memories of 'la familia'.  Recalling those summer trips to Rosarito and Yosemite and the great times together.  Or, the regular gatherings at her dad's house and her own house on Glendon. Those were some of her favorite memories. She loved cooking for others that would visit, and especially her homemade crunchy shell tacos, which she poured her heart into making, knowing the joy it brought to others.

Mary had a beautiful soul and would encourage others to believe in themselves, even when times may have seemed tough.  Her inspiration and willingness to help was selfless and something people didn't experience very often from others.  She taught us all so much about the simple act of kindness. Her generosity will never be forgotten.  Mary helped us feel safe, warm and understood.  She loved people, cherished life and never wanted to impose herself onto others. She was truly one of a kind.

As her youngest son she always made me feel special, often saying how proud she was of me. I cherished our time together like when I was a young boy, she allowed me to sneak a sip of her warm coffee while sitting and chatting about life in our breakfast room.  Or, how she would let me race to her bed and hide underneath her covers seeking comfort in the floral scent, safe from those scary dreams as a child.  As I became an adult, she never stopped pushing me to do better and having faith in whatever path I chose. She will forever be my angel looking down on me.

Although she may have left her party on earth, you can bet she is the life of the after party in the heavens above.  I can picture her singing to the mariachi, leading the conversations and showing everyone her ballroom dance steps to follow.

In her last days she often referenced a desire to see her mom, dad, sister and brothers who have passed. Although my heart is heavy, I am thankful she is with them now.  My soul is inspired as I know I will see her one day in the future, dancing with her in my arms while holding her gentle hands as we head towards the music and light together.

May God bless Mary's soul and give her eternal happiness.

We are planning a "Celebration of Life" for Mary at Don Antonio's Restaurant 11755 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064, on February 15th, from 12-3pm PST.  If interested in participating, please email Richard Gonzalez @ rickgonzo68@aol.com , or text at 415-606-5601.  We will have a video montage and allow an opportunity to share any thoughts about Mary.