Maria Paz Gonzalez

Maria Paz (Mari) Gonzalez passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by the love and support of her family.

Born in Roma, Texas, Mari was the beloved firstborn of Roberto Recio and Cristina Benavides. A proud graduate of Roma High School, she was valedictorian of the Class of 1955. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, Texas, in 1959.

After completing her studies, Mari returned home to Starr County, where she began her long and dedicated career in healthcare. She worked for many years alongside Dr. Mario Ramirez in Roma and later with Dr. Roberto Gonzalez after the practice moved to Rio Grande City. Maria Paz was proud to be the first female Medical Technologist in Starr County—a true pioneer in her field. Her devotion to her patients was well known; she often went above and beyond, visiting them at home or welcoming them into her own early in the morning to ensure they received the care they needed.

A devout Catholic, Maria Paz was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and faithfully said her daily prayers each night. Her dedication to her community was equally strong. She was named Outstanding Woman of the Year in 1968, served as a member of Beta Sigma Phi, and was 4-H Head Leader from 1974 to 1976. Mari also served as president of the Roma Historical Museum Association and was the chairman of the Roma Sesquicentennial Committee in 1976.

Mari’s many passions included cooking and baking, sewing, and gardening. She cherished time spent with family and friends and loved visiting the ranch. Known for her warm spirit and joyful personality, she brought life and laughter to every gathering—especially her own birthday celebrations.

Maria Paz was preceded in death by her husband, Rene E. Gonzalez, Sr. She is survived by her 3 children: Rosa Cristina “Cookie” Gonzalez, Rene E. “Rana” Gonzalez, Jr. (Glenda), and Luis Jaime “Cotoy” Gonzalez (Zoraida). She was a proud grandmother to Rene Ricardo “Renie” Gonzalez, Luis Jaime “Louie” Gonzalez, Jr. (Alyssa), Carlos Alberto “Charlie” Gonzalez, and Andres “Andy” Gonzalez (Melissa), and great-grandmother to Luis Jaime “Trey” Gonzalez III, who brought her immense joy.

She is also survived by her brothers Roberto Recio Jr. (Santitos) and Gabriel E. “Kito” Recio (Alvilda), and their children: Roberto Recio III, Roberta Recio, Renee Recio, Vanessa Recio, Stephanie Recio-Rodriguez, Kristina Recio-Moya, and Gabriela Recio-Cruz. Mari shared a special bond with her cousins from the Benavides and de la Garza families.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the many expressions of love, support, and prayers received during this time.

Visitation will be held at Sanchez Funeral Home in Roma, Texas. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, followed by interment at the Roma Cemetery.

Mari will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her faith, kindness, and lifelong dedication to family, friends, and community.

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:

Maria Paz (Mari) Gonzalez, of Roma, Texas, passed away peacefully in her sleep surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Roma, she was the firstborn of Roberto Recio and Cristina Benavides. A proud Roma High School valedictorian, Class of 1955, Mari earned her Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Incarnate Word College in 1959. She was the first female Medical Technologist in Starr County and worked many years with Dr. Mario Ramirez and Dr. Roberto Gonzalez, serving her community with great dedication and compassion.

A devout Catholic, Mari was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and was active in numerous community organizations, including Beta Sigma Phi and 4-H, where she served as Head Leader from 1974–1976. She was also president of the Roma Historical Museum Association and chaired the Roma Sesquicentennial Committee in 1976. In 1968, she was named Outstanding Woman of the Year.

Mari was preceded in death by her husband, Rene E. Gonzalez, Sr. She is survived by her children Rosa Cristina “Cookie” Gonzalez, Rene E. “Rana” Gonzalez, Jr. (Glenda), and Luis Jaime “Cotoy” Gonzalez (Zoraida); grandchildren Rene Ricardo “Renie” Gonzalez, Luis Jaime “Louie” Gonzalez, Jr. (Alyssa), Carlos Alberto “Charlie” Gonzalez, and Andres “Andy” Gonzalez (Melissa); and great-grandson Luis Jaime “Trey” Gonzalez III. She is also survived by her brothers Roberto Recio Jr. (Santitos) and Gabriel “Kito” Recio (Alvilda), and their children: Roberto Recio III, Roberta Recio, Renee Recio, Vanessa Recio, Stephanie Recio-Rodriguez, Kristina Recio-Moya, and Gabriela Recio-Cruz. Mari shared a special bond with her cousins from the Benavides and de la Garza families.

Visitation will be held at Sanchez Funeral Home in Roma, Texas. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church, followed by burial at Roma Cemetery.

Mari will be remembered for her deep faith, love of family, and joyful spirit that touched everyone who knew her.