Tributes

Mary Castellanos Nerio was born on May 24, 1936, in Carrizo Springs, Texas, and passed away on May 21, 2026, just days before her 90th birthday. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Guadalupe Nerio; her son, David Nerio; her parents, Nicolas and Ascension Castellanos; and her siblings Aurora, Victor, Clarita, Pedro, Juanita, Velia, and Everto. She is survived by her brother, Juan Manuel; her daughters, Lorinda Nerio and husband Mitchell Sowards, and Celinda Nerio; her son, Arnold Nerio; her grandchildren Kristopher Nerio, David Matthew Nerio, Alexandra Nerio; great-grandsons Rylan and Kody Nerio, and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mary grew up in Carrizo Springs and lived there until she married Guadalupe in 1959. Together they built their family life in Harlingen, Texas, where Mary became a familiar and beloved presence among her friends and family. They were married 41 years. Mary was a uniquely joyful, warm, and unforgettable person. At every gathering, everyone wanted to sit next to Mary. She had a way of making people feel welcomed, entertained, and loved, and she seemed to know someone everywhere she went. Whether at a restaurant, a shopping mall, or walking along the San Antonio River Walk, someone would inevitably call out, “Mary! Mary!” She was the kind of person people remembered — and were always delighted to see again. For 32 years, Mary worked for various school districts in the Valley. She worked at Harlingen CISD at Central Office. Her sons learned early on that they could never get away with anything at school, because Mary would hear about it. Mary later worked at Med High in the South Texas ISD for Health Professions. She was the registrar and secretary for the Counselors. Students would go out of their way to walk through her office for a kind word, encouragement or a hug. Mary was an avid sports fan. She first cheered proudly for the Harlingen Cardinals, then the Harlingen Hawks, and was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the San Antonio Spurs. She followed her teams with loyalty, enthusiasm, and plenty of opinions. She keenly followed the news and her favorite telenovelas. Above all, Mary will be remembered for her smile and the joy she brought into every room, the love she freely gave her family, and the countless friendships she carried throughout her life. Her presence was bright, familiar, and deeply cherished, and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her. If you wish, in lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to the San Antonio Food Bank Summer Meals for Kids program or any charity of your choice.

Tributes

Mary Castellanos Nerio

May 24, 1936 - May 21, 2026