Mary Escarcega

1927 - 2023

Mary Escarcega July 2, 1927 - September 26, 2023 Quartz Hill - With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mary Elizabeth Escarcega, age 96, on September 26, 2023. Born July 2, 1927 in Nyssa, Oregon to Virgil and Katherine McGee, she eloped in July 1954 and married her love Alfonso, who preceded her in death in 2019. After graduating from the U.S. Nursing Cadet program in 1945, Mary began her 45 year nursing career which inspired all 4 children and 2 of her grandchildren to follow in her footsteps. She eventually settled in the AV where the majority of her career was in the OR at AV Medical Center. Her coworkers have described her as always being kind, caring, compassionate and a true professional. Mary's skills learned on her family homestead in Oregon carried on into her family life in California. She had a love for photography, sewing, knitting and crocheting. Before marriage, Mary explored the U.S. and after, she and Alfonso traveled the world extensively. Mary and Al were both active members of the High Desert Iris and Daylily Society and their beautiful gardens reflected their passion. Mary was a dedicated wife, mother and friend who embraced every moment with them. She leaves behind her 4 children: Arnold (Marta), Delia, Anna (Tim) Green and Julia Mallyon; 6 grandchildren: Ashley, Matthew, Mary, Michaela, Martin and Joseph along with 6 great grandchildren: Tristin, Charlotte, Emia, Harper, Avery and Eleazar. She treasured them all. Preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings: George, Doris, Ellen, Lois and son in law Rick Mallyon. Memorial Mass to be held at Saint Junipero Serra Church in QH on October 21 at 9:30am. Reception to follow at the Escarcega home.