Mary Ruth Garcia, a longtime resident of Morenci, Arizona, passed away on October 31, 2023, at her home with her family by her side. Mary was 63 years old.
Mary was born in Aberdeen, Idaho, on November 5, 1959, to Arthur and Georgia Shupe. She was the oldest of 3 siblings, John Shupe and Kay Herrera.
Mary graduated from Morenci High School in 1978. She went on to attend Pima Medical Institute in Tucson, AZ, where she received a certificate in medical billing. In 1983 Mary met the love of her life and husband of 39 years, Freddie Garcia. Together they would raise three children: Erik, Cheri, and Matthew.
Mary retired from the Morenci School District in 2022 where she worked as the on-campus suspension teacher for 15 years.
Mary enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her 4 grandchildren and great-nieces and nephews. She also enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends. Mary was known for her beautiful cookies that she would always bake for every holiday. She enjoyed camping, fishing, and taking care of her dogs.
Mary is survived by: her husband of 39 years, Freddie; her children, Erik (Christine) Chavez, Cheri (Bryan) Burkhead, and Matthew Garcia; her mother, Georgia Shupe; and her siblings, John (Elizabeth) Shupe, and Kay (Manuel) Herrera. Mary is also survived by: her 4 grandchildren, Gianna Chavez, Brennen Burkhead, Brody Burkhead, and Braelynn Burkhead; along with many nieces and nephews; and her two dogs who she loved, Chloe and Diesel.
Mary is preceded in death by: her father, Arthur Shupe; and her beloved twin daughters, Holly Lynn and Alisha Lynn Garcia.
Funeral services for Mary will be conducted Friday, November 17, 2023, at 1:00 p.m., at the Clifton Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Clifton, AZ, conducted by President Lamar Taylor.
Online condolences may be offered at viningfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
