Mary Helen Maldonado

Mary Helen Maldonado beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, was called to her eternal resting place peacefully at the age of 80 on September 5, 2024. She was born on Christmas Day, 1943 to Daniel and Dominica Paiz. She is preceded in death by her parents, twin baby boys, brother, Peter Paiz, and sister, Eva Bernal. She married Bernardino (Bernie) Maldonado, sharing a life of 35 years where she was a wonderful, caring wife until his death in March of 1998. Her sweet smile, wonderful laugh, warmth, kindness and unwavering faith and love for her family were the hallmarks of her life and she brought light and love to everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her three children: Theresa Gurule (Matthew Gurule), Robert Maldonado (Terri Maldonado), and Bernadette Maldonado (Frank Jaramillo) six grandchildren: Danielle Gurule (Adam Lujan), Sara Gurule (Ted LaCoe), Robby Maldonado, Miranda Labastida, Enrique Labastida, Luci Maldonado; and one beloved great-grandchild, Ella Lujan.

Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she lovingly cared for from birth until they began school and throughout. Her nurturing spirit and boundless love will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to have known her. She always had a soft spot in her heart for animals, she lovingly cared for the dogs she had throughout the years as well as the neighborhood stray cats and birds that would visit her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Presbyterian Hospice for the exceptional care provided during her final days. A special thanks goes to her Nurse Andrea Thury-Castro, Brenda Sandberg, Nurse Debbie, Dr. Sansonetti and Father Charles whose dedication, kindness, and attentiveness brought comfort and peace to both Mary and her family.

Mary was not only a dedicated mother and grandmother but also a source of joy, laughter, and happiness to all. Her positive outlook and generosity touched the lives of many. Her warmth touched everyone who visited, ensuring that no one left without a loving embrace and her Blessing for safe travels, "God Bless you and go with you." Her legacy of love, faith, and devotion to her family will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. She will be dearly missed by her family and all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones forever.

She is now free of her ailing body, to smile, laugh and dance.

Services will begin with a visitation on Tuesday, September 17th at 6:00 pm followed by a Rosary at 6:30 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 18th at 9:00 am at St. Joseph on the Rio Grande Church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Reception to follow burial at FRENCH-University.