Mary Nell Lopez

Mary Nell continued the Lopez legacy of passing in September at the age of 90. She passed peacefully in her home surrounded by family after a year and three-month battle with cancer.

Mary Nell was born in Bessmay, Texas and moved to Beaumont in 1940. She graduated high school from St. Anthony’s in 1949. She attended Hotel Dieu Hospital Nursing Program, where she graduated in 1952 as an RN and was a member of their alumni. She had a long career in nursing starting at Baptist Hospital and then moving to Public Health for the State of Texas and City of Beaumont, retiring from both. She was the recipient of many awards throughout her long career. Her faith was always the biggest part of her life. She was involved in several organizations such as; Legion of Mary, Altar Society, CYO Advisor/Sponsor, taught CCD, Eucharistic Minister, member of Cathedral ladies, Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Gerard 1938. Furthermore, she was a daily communicant and performed adoration at St. Anthony’s and St. Anne’s, she also attended St. Pius. One of her favorites was being able to do prison ministry.

She is survived by her brother-in-law, Allen S. Mooney (Hemphill); great-nieces, Andrea L. Flores (Durham, N.C.) and Bianca L. Torseth (Beaumont); great-nephew, John L. Torseth and his wife, Jenn (Aubrey); and great-great nieces, Ella and Jilly Torseth (Aubrey) and great-great nephew, David L. Gardner (Durham, N.C.) and numerous cousins throughout Texas and Mexico.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Isabel Lopez; sister and brother-in-law, Juanita and Lewis Guererro; sister, Carmen L. Mooney; niece, Dora V. Torseth and husband, Ingar A. Toreseth.

A gathering of Miss Lopez’s family and friends will begin at 5:00 p.m., with a Rosary recited at 6:00 p.m., Friday, September 9, 2022, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 10, 2022, at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, 700 Jefferson Street, Beaumont. Her cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

In all of her travels, her favorite was The Holy Land and Acapulco. She loved to read and go to the casino (she always won!). The family would like to thank Texas Total Care and all of her friends that have supported her. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Monastery of the Infant Jesus, 1501 Lotus Lane, Lufkin, Texas 75904, in her honor. The nuns hold a special place in her heart.