Mary Lou Artz

On Monday, November 11, 2024, Mary Lou Artz passed away at 85 after battling pancreatic cancer and suffering a stroke on Halloween night. Born on January 13, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas, to Joseph and Mataline Butler, she was the only daughter among four children. Mary Lou passed away peacefully at her home in La Vernia, Texas.

Mary Lou met Theodore Edward Artz, Jr. at Harlandale High School, and they married in February 1958. They shared a devoted 66-year marriage and had two children, Lana Prine and Randy Artz.

The title of GG brought Mary Lou the greatest joy. Her brightest moments were spent with her five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She fostered a deep love for family and friends in all who knew her. She cherished her own family and embraced Teddy’s large family as her own, forming an exceptionally close bond with his sisters that was nothing short of sisterhood. Her lifelong friendships, many of which began in childhood, were a testament to her unwavering loyalty and kindness.

With a strong will, determination, and unwavering resolve, she never gave up on anything she set her mind to. She passed on this unyielding resolve to all who loved her and always believed in the goodness of people, even during their imperfections.

A talented seamstress, Mary Lou worked for 36 years as a dressmaker for the Order of the Alamo, creating hundreds of Coronation dresses and trains in her home sewing room while Teddy crafted the crowns.

She was a protector of her family’s 140+ year legacy, tirelessly maintaining the Butler family land. Mary Lou had a passion for gardening, spending much time tending her plants, especially orchids and hydrangeas, which added elegance to her home and yard.

She also loved cooking and viewed it as a way to bring people together. Mary Lou instilled the importance of home-cooked meals in her family, teaching others to cook and creating lasting memories around the table.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she played a key role in founding Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Kirby, Texas, remaining active until the COVID outbreak.

Mary Lou leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and strength. She is survived by her husband, Theodore Artz; children, Lana Prine and Randy Artz; grandchildren, Mandy Carlton, Jennifer Orbe, Lauren Hayward, Mataline Parker, and Blake Artz; and nine great-grandchildren and brothers Harold Butler and Lawrence Butler.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on November 27, 2024, at Sunset Memorial Park and Funeral Home, San Antonio, Texas, followed by a celebration of life service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her name to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels. Http//www.hopehospice.net/donate.