Mary G. "Nina" Lerma, of San Antonio, Texas went to be with her Heavenly Father on March 26, 2016, at the age of 87 years. She was born on April 15, 1928 to Antonio Garcia and Maria Robledo Garcia in East Chicago, Indiana. While traveling to San Antonio enroute to Mexico with her mother and siblings the family encountered hardships that ended with Mary being entrusted to and raised by Maria de la Paz and Felipe Villarreal along with Elias Villarreal, whom she fondly called brother.

Mary was a devoted wife, friend and "madrina". She emulated in life and personal character the angels of her vast collection which she amassed in memory of her mother Paz. She was truly an "earth angel" to all who she encountered always extending positive, kind and loving words. She loved unconditionally and unreservedly. She was a devout Catholic, who attended Little Flower Shrine. The love of her life was Ismael, who along with Mary baptized many children. To this day, these babies, now grown adults, still call her "Nina". She enjoyed spending time with her lady friends and "comadres" going to lunch, shopping, and attending all types of arts and craft classes imaginable. She cherished all of her relationships.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and beloved husband, Ismael Lerma Jr. She is survived by nephews: Victor Villarreal, Elias Villarreal and their spouses; step-daughter, Mary Esther Smario and husband Louis Smario of Colorado; granddaughters: Patti, Amanda, Diane, and Rosanne; six grandchildren: Christopher, Leesa, Madison, Taylor, Mason, and Peyton; great-great-grandchildren: Christopher, Mia and Rustin; numerous nieces, nephews and Godchildren.

Special thanks to the doctors, caregivers, neighbors, friends and particularly the staff of Horizon Bay Retirement Community, who so lovingly cared for Mary.

FUNERAL SERVICES

The family will receive friends Thursday beginning at 6:00 P.M. in The Angelus Chapel with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 P.M. Graveside Service and Interment will be held Friday at 9:00 A.M. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.