Mary Lou Portillo

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents Felix “Apa” Contreras & Pilar “Ama” Silva Contreras, brothers David Contreras & Miguel Contreras. She is survived by her husband of 55 years Jose Antonio “Tony” Portillo Sr., her five Children, Miguel Antonio Portillo (Rose), Teresa Lugo (Michael), Jose “Pepito” Antonio Portillo Jr. (Lisa), Danny Portillo (Vanessa), Victoria Elizalde (Israel), 21 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Modesta Macias, and brothers Jose Contreras & Nick

Contreras.

Mary Lou Portillo was born on December 11th, 1946 in Mesquite, New Mexico to Felix “Apa” Contreras & Pilar “Ama” Silva. She married Jose Antonio “Tony” Portillo, the love of her life in 1965. After moving to Phoenix, Mary Lou served as board member and parent volunteer for the Murphy school district for many years. She also worked as a Teacher’s Assistant and then changed careers to a Nanny for approximately 20 years. She continued to serve her community by volunteering at her grandchildren’s schools as well as supporting them in their extracurricular activities. Over 10 years, the couple welcomed five children into their home and Mary Lou set about teaching them to love and to serve God, their families, and the community. Her children remember her as a strong willed, faithful, loving, passionate, caring, giving mother who was always there to encourage them to pursue their goals.

Mary Lou was accomplished at many things including Arts & Crafts like sewing, crocheting, drawing, painting, creating decorations and designing outfits. She was a very generous and caring individual who loved giving of herself and who was passionate about helping others in their time of need. She was an active and dedicated member of the St. Matthews Catholic Church and often volunteered at many community locations.

The funeral will be a private service due to current pandemic restrictions. The family invites you to join via livestream at this link https://fb.me/e/8gs0xfLP7 beginning with a Rosary at 9:30 AM on Saturday, January 2nd, 2021.