Mary Helen Almendarez

Mary Helen Almendarez, lovingly known as Mom, Momma, Grandma Mary, Mamma Grande, and Chiquita, went home to be with the Lord on September 5, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born on November 28, 1945, in Houston, Texas, where she lived her entire life surrounded by her family and faith.

Mary was a strong Christian woman whose life reflected her deep love for God. A faithful member of The Sanctuary Church in Houston, she lived her faith daily through her words, her prayers, and her actions. She dedicated much of her life to serving others—feeding the homeless, spreading the Gospel, encouraging her children and grandchildren in their walk with Christ, and teaching Christian songs like “Jesus Loves the Little Children” and “Jesus Loves Me.”

Her strength and devotion to God never wavered, even in her hardest moments. Whether at home or in the hospital, Mary kept her Bible close, reading and praying faithfully every day. Even when sick and on oxygen, she would lay hands and pray for others before thinking of herself. In her final moments, she asked to be prayed for and lifted her hands to the Lord—leaving this world the same way she lived: in worship.

Mary also had a joyful love for food and family gatherings. A true foodie, she was always cooking enough to feed an army, showing her love through every meal. She passed down her love for cooking to her family and sparked their love for coffee, starting many of her grandchildren on it at a young age. Some of the sweetest memories are of morning coffees shared with Grandma Mary.

She loved adventure and was known for her joy in riding the Metro bus across Houston, often taking her grandchildren on memorable outings. She also reminded everyone to say “God willing” when making plans, instilling the importance of trusting in the Lord’s will.

Mary is survived by her children: Ana Almendarez, Cynthia Almendarez, Shirley Muro, and Steve Almendarez; as well as her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild expected this September. She is preceded in death by her beloved sons Darren and Abraham Almendarez, her great grandson Avery Hernandez, her parents Antonia and Eugenio “Papi” Martinez, and her brother Manuel Martinez.

She leaves behind the greatest gift a family can receive—the gift of faith and a deep relationship with the Lord. Her legacy is one of love, prayer, family, and worship. She loved her family, her church, and most of all, her God. The lasting memories of her will forever be of her cooking for those she loved, sipping coffee with her grandchildren, and lifting her hands in praise.

Her life was a testimony of resilience, generosity, and unshakable faith. Though deeply missed, her spirit, prayers, and lessons will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

As she always said when parting ways:“The Lord bless you and protect you.”