Mary Lou Carrasco

Mary Lou Carrasco, a distinguished educator, devoted principal visionary superintendent, loving mother, and cherished, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2023. Born on June 21, 1941, Mary Lou Carrasco dedicated her life to shaping the minds of students, guiding educational institutions, and building a legacy of love and wisdom within her family.

The family will receive Friends and Family on Wednesday January 3, 2024 from 1:00pm - 9:00pm with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7:00pm at Pecos Funeral Home

Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, January 4, 2024, 10:00 am at Santa Rosa De Lima Catholic Church in Pecos, Texas

Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

With career spanning over 40 years in education at Pecos Barstow Toyah ISD and Balmorhea ISD, Mary Lou began her journey as a passionate classroom teacher before rising to the role of an inspiring principal and later assuming the responsibilities of a forward-thinking superintendent. Her leadership was characterized by innovation, a commitment to academic excellence, and a deep understanding of the transformative power of education.

As a principal at Pecos Kindergarten, Bessie Haynes Elementary, and Balmorhea School, Mary Lou created a nurturing environment where students not only excelled academically but also flourished as individuals. Her dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere earned her the respect and admiration of both students and colleagues.

Later, as superintendent at Balmorhea Independent School District, Mary Lou Carrasco continued to make significant contributions to the educational community. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a nurturing environment helped shape the future of countless students who passed through the halls of the institutions she led. She implemented progressive policies, championed teacher development, and worked tirelessly to ensure that every student had access to quality education. Her visionary leadership left an indelible mark on the school district, shaping the educational landscape for generations to come.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mary Lou was a loving and devoted mother to four children, a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, and a devoted sister to six siblings. Family was at the center of her life, and she approached her role as a mother, grandmother, and sister with the same passion and dedication that she brought to her career in education.

Known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support, Mary Lou created a home filled with love, laughter, and a strong sense of values. Her family remembers her as a source of strength and inspiration, always ready with words of encouragement and wisdom. In addition to her family, Mary Lou leaves behind a legacy of educational excellence and a community enriched by her leadership. Community members, colleagues, and friends remember her as a mentor, a trailblazer, and a tireless advocate for the power of education to transform lives.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her husband Luis Carrasco, mother Eusebia Urquidez, father Julian Urquidez, brothers Joe Urquidez and Albert Urquidez.

Mary Lou is survived by her four children, Luis Carrasco, Albert Carrasco, Crissy Martinez, Mayna Benavides; her six grandchildren, Alex Morales, Christopher Martinez, Matthew Martinez, Victoria Carrasco, Zachary Carrasco; Maya Carrasco; and Alyna Carrasco; her great-grandchildren Bella Morales , Kinslee Morales , Acacia Carrasco , and Eleanor Carrillo ; siblings Lisa Franco , Armando Urquidez , Violet Urquidez , and Susan Urquidez .

As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, let us remember Mary Lou Carrasco for the positive impact she made on the lives of countless students and the enduring love and wisdom she shared with her family. May she rest in eternal peace with her legacy living on in the hearts of all those she touched.