Mary Champion Garibay

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Champion Garibay, a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, who left this world on July 12, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. Born on September 7, 1949, in San Antonio, Texas to Jimmy and Dolores Champion. Mary lived her life with grace and compassion, touching the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Mary instilled the values of kindness, hard work, and family in her loved ones. She dedicated much of her life to education as a Teacher's Aide, at Anton, Cotton Center and Hale Center ISD's where her patience and nurturing spirit made a lasting impact on the students she guided. She retired from Texas Migrant Counsel as a Headstart Teacher. After graduating from Cotton Center High School, Mary married the love of her life, Lewis Garibay on August 7, 1969 in Lubbock, Texas. They settled in Anton, Texas so that Lewis could farm. That same year, their first son, Jamie was born and Lewis and Mary made the decision to move to Hale Center, Texas to be closer to their loved ones. During this time, their second son, Brian was born.
Mary was a devoted wife and mother and drove grain trucks for Lewis during harvesting season along with attending sporting events, stock shows, band concerts and other numerous activities. Mary was a member of Hale Center Young Homemakers and was awarded outstanding member. During this time, Mary graduated from South Plains College and attended Texas Tech University, Lewis and Mary were members of First Baptist Church, Hale Center where Mary taught Sunday School for many years. Once retired, Lewis and Mary moved to Lubbock, Texas where Mary was a member of First Christian Church.
A passionate gardener, Mary found joy and solace among her plants. She was known for her culinary talents, often delighting her family with delicious meals crafted with love. But above all, Mary cherished her time spent with her three beloved grandchildren-Jordan, Jackson, and Madelyn-who were the joys of her life. Her home was a haven of laughter, warmth, and unconditional love.
Mary is survived by her two sons, Jamie and his wife Courtnei Garibay of Clifton, Texas, and Brian Garibay of Lubbock, Texas. As well as her Grandchildren, Jordan and his wife Ally Garibay of Lubbock, Texas, Jackson Garibay of Lubbock, Texas, Madelyn Garibay and her fiance Jett Ballard of Lubbock, Texas, Jacei Barrera of Sundown, Texas, Jayden Barrera of Lubbock, Texas whose lives were enriched by her unwavering support and encouragement. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that will be remembered by all who knew her
Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Garibay; Father, Jimmy Champion; Mother, Delores Champion.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, July 17th at First Christian Church, 2323 Broadway Ave, Lubbock, TX 79401 with Reverend Paul Carpenter officiating. In lieu of flowers, and to honor Mary's lifelong commitment to helping others, the family requests that donations be made to Joe Arrington Cancer and Research Center or First Christian Church. In accordance with her wishes, Mary's body will be donated to continue the cycle of giving and education that she so passionately endorsed throughout her life.
As we bid farewell to Mary Champion Garibay, let us carry forward her spirit of compassion, her love for family, and her unwavering belief in the goodness of others. She never met a stranger and will forever remain a beacon of light in our hearts.