Mary Helen Chavarria

Mary Helen Chavarria, a lifelong Galveston resident, died peacefully in her home at the age of 78 on Monday, September 8, 2025. As a young adult Mary had various local jobs, working as a seamstress at Levy's dress shop, clerical work at Shriner's Burn Institute, UTMB, and later at Lipton Tea Co. To find more stable means and to provide for her family, Mary became a process operator at Amoco Chemical. During her time there she became a volunteer firefighter and paramedic. Following her retirement, she chose to serve her community first by working for the Galveston County Health District and then the faith-based nonprofit, The Jesse Tree. In true mom form she helped at both her son's bicycle shop and her family's restaurant, baking for Mel's Blueplate. Her delicious desserts will be missed.
Affectionately known as "Miss Mary" in the neighborhood, Mary was the mother of five children and gathered many "spares" along the way. She was a force to be reckoned with and a fierce protector of her children and family. In her free time, she enjoyed the beach, traveling, gardening, mission work, family gatherings, and spending time with her grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Alfonso Sr. and Nicolasa Flores; her loving daughter, Melanie Chavarria; brothers, Jose (Joe) Flores, Alfonso Flores Jr. and Johnny Flores; and sisters, Theresa Salinas, Florence Ratliffe, Leonora Hernandez and Gloria Masters.
Mary is survived by her children: Joey Chavarria, Rebecca Chavarria and partner Eartha Courtright, Albert Chavarria and husband, David McGivern of Silver Spring, Maryland, Sulema Chavarria and Nicolas Chavarria. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Avery Chavarria, Alison Chavarria, Archibald McGivern, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Malloy & Son Funeral Home.