Mary Huerta

Mary Huerta was born to Frank and Lucy Gomez, on July 4, 1944, along with her twin brother Pete, in Brawley, CA. She moved to Acampo at the age of five, and later to Stockton, where she spent the remainder of her life. She married her husband, Paul Huerta Sr., in 1961. She attended Edison High School, but later graduated from Stockton Adult Education School. Mary worked for canneries Cal Can and Tri-Valley Growers, for over 30 years. She started out working on “the Belt” and was proud to be promoted to “the Lab” where she worked testing the tomato products. Mary also worked for Stockton Unified as a teacher’s aide for many years at various schools.

Mary, or “Chata”, as she was lovingly called by her family and many friends, was a pillar of the South Stockton community. She was a volunteer at Southern Little League, she taught Catechism at St. George Church for 15 years, and she worked every year at the St. George Church Festival, many of the last years in her family’s hamburger booth. Mary looked after many children, from her own nieces and nephews, to the neighborhood kids. She cared for animals, often leaving out food for those without.

Mary’s life was all about family. She has six brothers and sisters, and has always been an integral part of their lives. She baby sat, baptized and was always present at family events, including those of her numerous nieces and nephews. Whether it was their birthday parties, sporting events, awards assemblies or pageant at school, Mary and Paul were always there supporting and loving their family members. Mary was the care-giver for both her sister Connie, and her mother, when they reached the last stage of their lives. She put her life on hold for both of these women, and made sure they were taken care of with love and respect.

Mary might best be remembered for carrying on her mother’s tradition of hosting Sunday Breakfast for her family, sometimes serving 30 or more people, every week. She loved cooking for her family, and her ice-tea was phenomenal.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Lucy, and her sister, Connie Gomez. She is survived by her husband Paul Huerta Sr., her children Paul Huerta Jr. and Jacki (Mickey) Montijo, her grandchildren Julian Huerta, Arielle Montijo, Daniel Montijo and Micheal Montijo. She is also survived by her siblings Pete Gomez, Frank Gomez Jr., Johnny Gomez(Angie), Guadalupe Zuckerman, and Ray Gomez (Carolina), along with numerous nieces, nephews and god-children.

A rosary will be held January 23, at 6pm at St George Church, 120 W 5th St., with viewing beginning at 5 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on January 24, at 1 pm at St George.

Donations can be made in honor of Mary to Hospice of San Joaquin. We extend our deepest appreciation and gratitude for their work in aiding and caring for Mary in her last weeks.