Mary Ellen Soriano

1935 - 2025

Mary Ellen (Gibbons) Soriano, 89, of Tucson, passed away on June 21, 2025. Preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Samuel Soriano, and they are now reunited in eternal life. Mary Ellen was born on November 9, 1935 in Bisbee, AZ, daughter of James Gibbons and Josephine (Flores) Gibbons. She graduated from Bisbee High School and was married to Samuel in 1956. Preceded in death by their two sons, James Soriano and Matthew Soriano. Mary Ellen is survived by their two daughters, Linda Wingert (Dean) of Tucson and Geralyn Comolli (Randy) of Tucson, and four grandchildren, Cody Wingert, Cassandra Wingert, Bennett Soriano, and Troy Comolli. She is also survived by her sister Geraldine Smith of Aurora, CO and her two brothers Donny Gibbons of Bisbee and Lonnie Gibbons of Camp Verde, AZ. Also preceded in death by a sister and a brother. Mary Ellen and Sam raised their family in Bisbee and were faithful members of St. Patrick Catholic Church. They relocated to Safford, AZ in 1974 until they were able to return to Bisbee. Mary Ellen worked for Sears for many years and also devoted many hours of volunteer service to her church and community. She was known for her kind heart, her ability to make friends everywhere she went, and her engaging laugh. She adored her grandchildren and being together with family, and she could dish out the greatest Mexican food meals you can imagine. Mary Ellen relocated to Tucson in 2013 and continued to make new friends. We will miss her tremendously but rejoice in the memories she has left us all. Memorial service will be held at a later date at St. Patrick's in Bisbee. Arrangements by Avenidas Funeral Home.