Mary Brenda Morales

With deep love and heartfelt sorrow, the family of Mary Brenda Morales announces her passing on December 4, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on March 8, 1951, Mary was the beloved daughter of R. T. Mullins and Louise Elizabeth (Ward) Mullins, and a lifelong source of joy, laughter, and connection to all who knew her.

Mary had a warm and outgoing spirit—truly a social butterfly who never met a stranger. Whether she was chatting with neighbors, striking up conversations in the checkout line, or brightening a family gathering with her humor, Mary had a gift for making people feel seen and welcomed. Patricia fondly remembers being terrified to talk to Santa Claus as a child, but Mary never hesitated—she would talk to everyone and even brought Santa by the hand through the department store to find her sister. Her friendliness wasn’t just a trait; it was her way of loving others.

She was preceded in death by her sons Mario R. Morales and David Morales, and is survived by her son Leonard “Ray” Romero, who carries forward her compassion and strength. Mary was also preceded in death by her siblings Barbara Johnson and John Martin Mullins II, and is lovingly remembered by her sister Patricia C. Mullins, her brother Roy Mullins, and many nieces and nephews who adored her.

Mary had a tender devotion to animals and shared a special bond with her late cat, Tom, whom she loved dearly. She enjoyed cooking, often trying new dishes she saw on TV cooking shows, and was especially proud of her pot roast—one of her specialties that family members always looked forward to. Though friendly and fearless in so many ways, she was humorously known for one big exception: she absolutely hated needles. The family recalls the famous polio shot ordeal where Mary ran kicking and screaming—letting out a yell so dramatic that “even Tarzan would have envied her scream.”

Mary will be remembered for her warmth, her easy laughter, and the effortless way she brought people together. She loved her family fiercely and found joy in simple moments—cooking, visiting, sharing stories, and caring for the people and animals around her.

Private cremation services have taken place in the care of Solosy Funeral Home. In keeping with her wishes, the family will bring her remains to Woodmere Cemetery at a later date when they are ready to lay her to rest on her family plot.

Though her voice has grown quiet, her memory continues to speak love, joy, humor, and connection into the lives of all who knew her. Her family cherishes the many moments they shared and takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with the loved ones who went before her.