Mary Esther Senio

In Loving Memory of Mary Esther Senio

Mary Esther Senio, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 95. Born on May 24, 1931, in Buffalo, New York, to Thomas and Columbia Sardo, Mary lived a remarkable life filled with faith, love, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her Catholic faith.

Mary was a woman whose life reflected the love of Christ in everything she did. Her faith was not simply something she professed; it was something she lived each day through her actions, her generosity, her compassion, and the care she extended to everyone she encountered. She was a living example of a woman of God, and her presence brought comfort, joy, and strength to so many. Everything Mary did, she did with kindness and perfection. Whether she was serving others, creating something beautiful with her hands, or welcoming loved ones into her home, she gave her whole heart to every task.

Mary shared 53 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Michael Nicholas Senio, who preceded her in death on October 14, 2006. Their life together was a testament to enduring love, commitment, and family. Though she carried the sorrow of his passing, the love they shared remained a cherished part of her life and the foundation of the family they built together.

Her greatest earthly blessing was her family. Mary was a devoted mother to Rosemary Hamilton, Paula Senio, Marie Senio, and Michael T. (Darlene) Senio. She took immense pride in her children and the family that grew from their lives. Her love extended to her cherished grandchildren: Christina and Paul Haefeli; Carrie Ann and George Frese, Michael and Kirsten Hamilton; Collin and Michelle Hamilton; Michael A. Senio; Lindsey and Danny Evans; and Nathan Senio.

She also had a special love for her great great grandchildren; John and Lily Haefeli; Odette and Esme Frese; Alexandria Hamilton; Nathaniel Hamilton; and Adam and Kyle Evans. Each held a special place in her heart, and her influence will continue through the generations who were blessed to know her. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael, and her brother, Joe Sardo.

Mary possessed a rare and beautiful combination of qualities. She was remarkable, compassionate, strong, and gentle in spirit. She was smart, classy, sassy, confident, and courageous; a woman who knew who she was and met life's challenges with grace and determination. She had a wonderful way of making people feel cared for, valued, and loved. Her strength inspired others; her gentle spirit comforted them, and her spirited personality brought laughter and light into every room she entered.

Mary found great joy in life's simple and meaningful pleasures. She was an avid Mahjong and Canasta player who was delighted in the fellowship, laughter, and friendly competition that came with gathering around a table with friends. She loved cooking and baking, sharing the warmth of her kitchen and the comfort of homemade treats with those she loved. Her talents extended to quilting, sewing, and creating beautiful porcelain dolls—each a reflection of her patience, creativity, and attention to detail. Through these gifts, she left behind more than treasured keepsakes; she left pieces of herself, lovingly woven into the lives and homes of those fortunate enough to receive them.

Her life was also marked by an extraordinary spirit of service. Mary worked with the Lancaster California School District and devoted herself to numerous organizations throughout her lifetime, including the Ladies Elks, Catholic Daughters, Italian Federation, Encore, Suburban Club, St. Vincent de Paul Women's Club, Prayer Shaw Ministry, Linen Ministry, Arlington Quilt Guild, Girl Scouts, PTA, Mahjong League, and Bowling League. Her involvement reflected her belief that a meaningful life is one spent contributing to others. Whether serving through her church, supporting children and families, sharing her talents, or building friendships through community organizations, Mary gave generously of her time and abilities.

Her dedication was recognized through her bowling achievements, including awards from the United States Bowling Congress (USBC), as well as recognition for completing 500 hours of PTA service. These honors represented not only her accomplishments but also the commitment, perseverance, and generous spirit that defined her life.

Above all, Mary understood that faith is best expressed through love and service. Her Catholic faith was a guiding light, sustaining her through life's joys and sorrows and reminding those around her of the power of prayer, hope, and trust in God's plan. Her involvement in church ministries, especially her service through the Prayer Shaw Ministry and Linen Ministry, reflected her desire to honor the Lord by serving His people.

The words of Philippians 4:13 beautifully capture the faith and strength that carried Mary throughout her remarkable journey:

“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” — Philippians 4:13

Mary's passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family and friends. Yet even in their grief, they can find comfort in the promise of the Catholic faith: that death is not the end, but a passage into eternal life with our Lord. We entrust Mary to the loving mercy of God, praying that she is welcomed into His heavenly kingdom, reunited with her beloved Michael and those who have gone before her, and embraced by the everlasting peace of Christ.

And perhaps the most beautiful tribute to Mary is found in the words so many would say if they could speak to her one more time: “I wish you could hear all the great things people are saying about you.” Those words express the depth of her impact and the love that surrounds her even now.

Though we grieve her absence, we rejoice in the life she lived and the promise that, in Christ, love never truly ends. May perpetual light shine upon her, may the angels lead her into Paradise, and may the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Homebound Ministry at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Arlington, Texas, in honor of Mary's enduring faith, compassion, and commitment to serving others.

Forever loved. Forever cherished. Forever in God's loving care.