Tributes

Maria “Mary Lou” Torres De Jesus entered eternal rest on March 23, 2026, at the age of 76. She was born on June 25, 1949, in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, to Aurelio and Dolores (Olvera) Torres. Mary Lou was a faithful and strong woman who never sugar-coated anything and always spoke from the heart. She was known for her sense of humor, her honesty, her joyful spirit and heart of gold. She loved dressing up for every occasion and holiday, bringing celebration and warmth wherever she went. Her passions included cooking, sewing, gardening, and dancing—things she shared generously with her family and friends. Her home and her table were always open to everyone. As many would say, “We never knew if her clientele came for a haircut or to eat.” No one ever left without both. After dedicating many years as a stay-at-home mother until her youngest child graduated, Mary Lou followed her dream and became a hairstylist, continuing her lifelong calling of caring for others. She was deeply involved in her children’s lives and schools, volunteering faithfully throughout their education. She was also a proud member of the Harlandale High School Booster Club, where she lovingly created student mums for many years. Her generosity extended far beyond her own children—she helped raise her grandchildren and supported countless others who needed encouragement, guidance, or simply a warm meal and conversation. Mary Lou never said no when someone needed her. Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Santiago “Jimmy” De Jesus; her son, Homar De Jesus; her brother, Salvador Torres; and her sisters, Guadalupe Avalos and Carmen Torres. She leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of her children: Julia Gimbel; Sonia Martinez (Diego); Erma De Jesus Curtis (Chad); Brenda De la Rosa (Sam); Jimmy De Jesus (Sandra); Anthony Elizondo, whom she loved as her own; and her daughter-in-law, Fabiola De Jesus. Each carries forward her strength, wisdom, faith, and unconditional love. Mary Lou’s legacy also lives on through her 20 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren: April (James) Burkett, George (Tonya) Gimbel, Louren Tiscareno, Anthony Elizondo, Jr., Clay (Adriana) Gimbel, Chelsea (Brandon) Divins, Belicia Martinez, Alyxa Martinez, Ethan De la Rosa, Ean De la Rosa, Jaxx De Jesus, Zane De Jesus, Xyla De Jesus, Serena De Jesus, Elisa De Jesus, Gunner De Jesus, Reyna Loredo, Saleen Burkett, James Anthony Burkett, Wyatt Gimbel, Alayna Gimbel, Sophia Gimbel, Esme Gimbel, Isla Gimbel, Rhett Gimbel, Caiden Gimbel, Addison Gimbel, Cole Gimbel, Kacey Gimbel, Jack Gimbel, and Cambri Divins. Through them, her love, traditions, and strength will continue for generations. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M., with a rosary to be recited at 6:30 P.M. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. A funeral service will be celebrated at 9:00 A.M. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at San Jose Burial Park, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved Jimmy and Homar. Mary Lou’s life was a beautiful example of faith, service, strength, laughter, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.

Tributes

Maria "Mary Lou" Torres De Jesus

June 25, 1949 - March 23, 2026