Mary Lou Mendolla , 81 of Lubbock, Texas, Formerly of Ralls, Texas went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday September 24, 2025. Mary Lou was born on August 19, 1944 to Jesus and Virginia Mendolla.
Mary Lou was a strong woman of faith that loved the lord. She loved big, unconditionally, and gave without ever expecting anything in return. She never met a stranger. Mary Lou had a lot of titles throughout her life, Restaurant Manager, Convenience Store Manager, Private Caregiver, but the most important titles to her were Mom and Grandma.
Mary Lou lived her life for her children, her Leigha (and Luke), her Ryan, and her Stevie Ray. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for her family, and she was a constant presence, attending every sporting event, academic achievement, and graduation. As a single mother, she was a true force, not only ensuring all three of her children graduated high school and attended college, but also working tirelessly to provide everything they needed—from their clothes to buying each of them their first car entirely on her own. Though she faced many struggles, Mary Lou met them all with grace and inspiring perseverance.
For Mary Lou, the kitchen was her love language. She made sure that anyone who visited her home ate heartily and abundantly. Her greatest joy was simply taking care of everyone, as she always did.
Mary Lou was an active adventurer: she loved traveling, tending to her plants, and was an avid fisher who could always reel in the biggest catch. This competitive streak wasn’t limited to the outdoors, though—she was also a consistent winner at the card and board games she played, including Poker, Dominoes, and Bingo
Mary Lou cherished her time spent with loved ones, enjoying the simple moments together. She loved having breakfast at IHOP with Gerry before settling in to watching their favorite TV shows, going shopping with Serena, and just spending the day surrounded by her grandkids.
Mary Lou Mendolla is survived by her children Gerry Martinez, Serena Martinez, son-in-law Billy, and her seven grandchildren, the apple of her eye Stevie Ray, and her Pixie. She also leaves behind her sister Stella Hernandez, and her brothers Sammy Mendolla, Lyman Mendolla, Mike Mendolla and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents Jesus and Virginia Mendolla, her son Gregg Martinez, brother in law, Chico Hernandez and brother Joe Mendolla.
A memorial service will be held on October 6, 2025 at 10:00 am at Lakeridge Chapel and Memorial Designers at 6025 82nd St Lubbock, TX 79424. Burial will take place at Ralls Cemetery at Jaybird Lane and Willow Avenue in Ralls, TX 79357.
“She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future” – Proverbs 31:25
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