Mary Helen Villarreal

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Helen Villarreal, beloved wife, mother, devoted teacher, and cherished friend. Mary Helen left us peacefully on November 21, 2024 in Brownsville, Texas at the age of 71.

Mary Helen was born on December 9, 1952 to parents Gerald and Anneva Swearingen. Mary Helen attended Sharyland High School and was part of the class of 1971. She went on to Florida College and later on to the University of Texas Pan American-Edinburg, where in 1976 she obtained a Bachelors degree in education. She dedicated over 35 years of her life to teaching, shaping the minds and hearts of countless students for the Brownsville Independent School District.

Mary Helen was just more than a teacher; she was a mentor, a confidant, and a source of inspiration to many. Her patience, kindness, and desire to help others were just a few reasons why people were so drawn to her.

Outside of the classroom, Mary Helen was a devoted and loving wife to Marcelo and mother to Rita and Marc. She poured her heart into supporting her family at all their sporting events, while always encouraging their dreams and ambitions. With her unwavering love, she ensured to create a legacy built on putting family first, showing compassion for others, and selflessly being available for others, especially her own. Mary Helen’s love knew no bounds as her family was her greatest pride and joy. The family memories that she helped create throughout her life, whether it was going on family cruises or trips, watching the Astros play, or even spending time with her pups and grandpups, will be cherished deeply and forever.

Mary Helen is survived by her husband of 47 years, Marcelo Villarreal Jr., her daughter, Rita Feliciano (Jason L. Feliciano), her son, Marcelo Villarreal III, her second family (in-laws), a host of friends and former colleagues who will fondly remember and miss her dearly.

Her legacy and memory will continue to live through her family and the words of Nicholas Sparks will continue to echo in our hearts “love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it.”

A Celebration of Life service is scheduled from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024 with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Services conclude at the end of the evening.

Services are under the guidance of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Flower Shop, located at 657 Springmart Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78526 (956-350-8485).

To send flowers or a plant to the family in the memory of Mrs. Mary Helen Villarreal, please visit Shalom Sympathy Florals at Sunset Memorial, place your order online at https://shalomflorals.com or call (956) 572-3872.