Mary Helen Winter

Mary Helen Winter, affectionately known to many as “Mamma Mary,” joined her Heavenly Father on Sunday, October 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Lubbock, Texas on October 19, 1956, Mary was incredibly proud of her heritage and carried that pride throughout her life. She was also proud to have served her country in the United States Marine Corps as a field radio operator in Quantico, Virginia from 1978-1981.

Mary lived her life with a strong heart, a bold personality, and a deep instinct to care for others. Whether it was a child, an animal, or anyone she felt needed looking after, her natural response was to nurture and protect. She was outspoken, passionate about her beliefs, and never afraid to let you know exactly where she stood. Those who knew her also knew her playful spirit and sense of fun.

Mary had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel. She enjoyed attending Renaissance fairs, where her adventurous and playful sides could shine. She was always ready to experience someplace new, but she was just as happy tending to her indoor plants and outdoor flowers. A caregiver at heart, she found joy in nurturing living things and watching them grow.

Music held a special place in Mary's heart. She especially loved the classic rock sounds of the 1970s, and The Beatles were her favorite band. Their music, along with so many songs from that era, became part of the soundtrack of her life.

She treasured time spent talking on the phone with friends and family and especially loved spending time with her grandson and watching him perform onstage. Her pets and “grand-pets” were family to her, too, and she loved them dearly. Though Mary had a heart for animals, there was one exception that became part of the family lore: she never met a teddy bear she didn't instantly fall in love with. More than anything, Mary will be remembered for being unmistakably herself—bold, outspoken, passionate, caring, playful, proud, and fiercely loving. 

She leaves behind countless memories, stories, laughter, and a love that will continue through the family and friends whose lives she touched. Mary was preceded in death by her mother, Flora Gaitan; her brother, Ruben Gaitan; and her husband Richard Edward Winter. 

She is survived by her children, Desiree Alejandro of Fritch, TX, Roman Alejandro of Borger, TX; her grandchild; Richard Alejandro of Winter Park, FL, her siblings, Flora Magana of Lubbock, TX, Irene Rojas of Amarillo, TX, Eddie Moreno of San Antonio, TX, Ray Rodriguez of Lubbock, TX; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at Pathway of the Cross in Lubbock, TX. 

A service will be held Friday, October 9, at 10am, followed by a burial at Peaceful Garden Memorial Park. 

Mary's life was one of strength, adventure, conviction, and love. While those who loved her grieve her absence, they take comfort in knowing that she has joined her Heavenly Father and that the love she gave so freely remains with them. 

Rest peacefully, Mamma Mary. You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed.