Mary Balbina Bocanegra Gracia

Mary Balbina Bocanegra Gracia, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and dedicated educator, went peacefully to be with the Lord on September 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 84 years old.

Born on September 1, 1942, in Robstown, Texas, Mary lived a life grounded in deep faith, continuous learning, and unconditional love for her family and community. She spent over 25 years as a passionate teacher, shaping young minds and leaving a lasting legacy on generations of students.

A resident of Houston, Texas, Mary was a devout Catholic whose unwavering faith served as the cornerstone of her life. For many years, she faithfully served as a prayer group leader, guiding others in prayer and offering comfort, wisdom, and spiritual strength to all who knew her. She always placed the Lord and her family first in everything she did.

Beyond her spiritual and professional accomplishments, Mary brought immense warmth and energy to every room she entered. She had a passion for dance, travel, sports, and fashion, but nothing mattered more to her than spending time with loved ones. Her joyous spirit and vibrant presence will be deeply missed.

Mary was the beloved wife of Juan Gracia, sharing 62 wonderful years of marriage, love, and devotion. She enjoyed spending time with her best friend and soulmate and they were inseparable.

She is also survived by her devoted family: John and Melissa Gracia, and their children, Madisyn, Morghan, and Jayhson; Judy and Jerry Goldick, and their children, Jade, Jacob, Juliana, and Jazmyn; Joette Gracia, her children, and her grandchildren: Jessica and Aaron Holsch (and their children Aaliyah, Lenox, Laylah, and Maddox), Serenity and Martin Tolentino, and Robert Jr. and Lorenzo Trujillo; James Gracia; Monica and Ronnie Mercer, and their family: Ryan, Becca, and Miles Bullock; Elaine, Kain, and Cypress Broussard; and David, Tyler, and Henry Perry.

She is reunited in Heaven with her parents, Trinidad and Leonila Bocanegra, and her beloved siblings, Trino, Neto, Alicia, Danielito, Juanito, and Dora.

Mary’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, friends, and the countless students and community members whose lives she touched.

Viewing & Rosary

Date: Monday, September 21

Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Public viewing begins at 5:00 PM, Holy Rosary at 6:30 PM, followed by Mariachis)

Location: American Heritage Funeral Home (10710 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038)

Funeral Service & Memorial

Date: Tuesday, September 22

Funeral Mass: 12:00 PM (Location St John Neumann Catholic Church at 2730 Nelwood Dr, Houston, TX 77038)

Graveside Service: 1:15 PM at Houston National Cemetery (10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038)

After we lay Mary to rest, you are welcome to join us for light hors d'oeuvres and refreshments at American Heritage Funeral Home.

Reception: 1:45 PM – 3:45 PM at American Heritage Funeral Home (10710 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038)

Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support during this time. Please feel free to share this information with those who knew and loved her.