Mary Ann Martin Rego, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly, gone far too soon.
Mary Ann was born on January 20, 1951, at Westside Hospital in Newman, California, to Manuel Sousa Martin and Rose Borges Cabral Martin. She grew up in Newman and graduated from Newman High School in 1969. After high school, she attended Adrian’s Beauty College in Modesto, where she became a licensed cosmetologist. Mary Ann worked as a hairdresser for five years before beginning a 33-year career in food service as a waitress at Denny’s in Santa Nella, where her warm smile and caring nature touched countless lives.
She married the love of her life, Larry S. Rego, and together they shared 55 years of marriage. They raised their family in Gustine on the family dairy, where hard work and love for family were at the heart of every day. Mary Ann was the devoted mother of Tina Rego Nunes (Alfred) and Larry Rego (Fallon), both of Turlock. Her family was truly her world, she never missed a birthday, anniversary, fair, dance recital, or sports event for her children or grandchildren. Her greatest joy came from being present for every milestone and celebration. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Morgan, Allison and Alfred Nunes, Larry E. Rego and Christina Silva Teles (Adriano), each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Mary Ann had a deep love for animals, especially horses, and a passion for photography, rarely seen without her camera in hand, capturing the moments that mattered most. She had an eye for beauty and creativity, often expressing herself through gardening, crafts and artistic projects. She also loved to shop, always searching for the perfect, thoughtful gift for those she loved.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents and her twin daughters, Laurie and Darcy. She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Larry; daughter, Tina (Alfred); son, Larry (Fallon); five grandchildren; her sister, Nancy Soares (Mel); brother, Larry Martin (Barb) and many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Mary Ann was a devout Catholic and a member of Our Lady of Miracles and Sacred Heart Parishes. A traditional Catholic service will be held at Hillview Funeral Chapels in Newman on Wednesday, November 12th, with a Visitation from 4:00 to 6:00p.m. followed by a Rosary at 6:00p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, November 13th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joachim’s Catholic Church, she will be laid to rest at Hills Ferry Cemetery.
Mary Ann will be remembered for her boundless love, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her kindness and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Contributions in Mary Ann’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or any charity of choice is a blessing.
Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Newman.
