Mary Dolores Valdez

Mary D. Valdez, 84, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2026, with her son at her side. Mary was born in Ganado, TX, on August 31, 1942, to the late Manuel and Perfecta Villarreal. Mary and her beloved husband, Santos Z. Valdez, Jr., were married for 56 blessed years.

Mary was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and took pride in her faith. She worked for Brazosport ISD food service for over fifteen years. Mary had a great memory and would share stories from years past. She was a dedicated Astros fan and faithfully followed their games on television. She could tell you about almost every player. Mary continued; she and her husbands, tradition of enjoying her Whataburger, but with Toasted buns. She loved and treasured her family, yet missed her beloved husband immensely over the past twelve years. Mary was a brave, strong woman and fought for her independence until the very end. She is now resting in peace with her beloved husband and family.

Mary was preceded in death by her loving parents, Manuel and Perfecta Villarreal; husband, Santos Z. Valdez, Jr.; son-in-law, Carlos Martinez, Sr.; great-granddaughter, Charlie Jane Martinez; sisters, Francis Ochoa, Aurora De La Garza, Margie Aguilar; and Brother, Joe Villarreal Sr.

Mary is survived by her son, Adrian Valdez Sr. & wife, Francis; three daughters, Cynthia Martinez (Otilio Guillen), Sandra Watson & husband, David, Sonya Moreno & husband, Cristoval. She has nineteen grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandson. She is also survived by her two sisters, two brothers, in-laws, several nephews and nieces whom she loved dearly.

Visitation will take place at Restwood Memorial Park, Clute, TX, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Mary’s long life close friend Mary Rodriguez, will recite the Rosary at 6:30 p.m.

A celebration Mass for Mary D. Valdez's life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Interment will immediately follow at Restwood Memorial Park, Clute, TX.

Pallbearers will be Adrian Valdez Sr., David Watson, Adrian Valdez Jr., Aaron Valdez, Carlos Martinez Jr., Santiago Cavazos Jr., Alisyia Watson, John Sauceda, and Charissa Martinez

Honorary Pallbearers will be Julian Cavazos, ChrisTann Sauceda, Victoria Watson, Gabriella Saavedra, Ashley Smith, Cristoval Moreno, and Otilio Guillen