Mary Alice Bonilla Barrera Although no one was ready to see her go, Mary Alice Bonilla Barrera passed away on February 12, 2007, at the age of 60. Her family and friends were by her side. Mary Alice was born on February 25, 1946 to Robert and Mary Alba Bonilla. An honor graduate of Johnston High School, Mary Alice had many close friends whom she adored and remained connected with throughout her life. She was known as a generous and fun-loving friend. Following graduation, she attended San Antonio College. On May 1, 1966, Mary Alice married the love of her life, Gene Barrera, a handsome Army man stationed at Ft. Sam Houston. They moved to El Paso where Mary Alice enjoyed a career with the Texas Workforce Commission and Gene worked for the Texas Department of Health. Their lives were complete with the birth of their only child, Gina. Mary Alice was passionate about her family, especially Gina and her grandson, Justin, of whom she was so proud. She loved her role as Nana, and nothing made her happier than sitting in the stands, cheering Justin as he played baseball, basketball, soccer and football. Mary Alice's influence has greatly contributed to the exceptional, caring young man he is today. Her large, extended family was very important to her, and she was well-known for remembering their birthdays and anniversaries with a perfectly-suited card or gift. She was a generous and fun loving person. When it came to family celebrations, Mary Alice took charge like a professional event coordinator. Many parties were themed, and in addition to lots of great food, they included such things as an ice sculpture, a caricaturist, live music or a fortune teller and even an Elvis impersonator. Mary Alice had a great sense of creativity and style that showed up in all areas of her life - from the way she decorated her home, to the way she dressed, entertained or created a hand-crafted gift. She became so adept at the frequent redecorating of her home it was rumored that if you stood still too long, you'd get painted or wallpapered! Mary Alice faced many health challenges with courage and dignity, and she leaves a legacy of love and inspiration. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Barrera; father, Robert Bonilla and brother; Simon Martin Moya. She will be greatly missed by those she's left behind. She is survived by her daughter, Gina Barrera and grandson, Justin Barrera-Mullens; her mother, Mary and stepfather, Simon Moya; sisters, Virginia and husband, Luis Riojas; Carolyn and husband Rudy Duran; Denise and husband Ray Brown and Monique and husband Michael Urtado. Surviving brothers are Richard and wife, Karin Bonilla; Anthony and wife JoAnn Bonilla. She is also survived by numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and lifelong friends. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. with recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of Cook-Walden Funeral Home on Thursday, February 15, 2007. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 16, 2007 at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 12041 Bittern Hollow, Austin, TX. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery.

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Published by Austin American-Statesman on Feb. 15, 2007.

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/statesman/name/mary-barrera-obituary?id=26487499