Maria "Mary" Elena Schumann of Fredericksburg passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the age of 78.

She was born in Bastrop, Texas, on May 1947 to Eufronio and Maria (Mendoza) Merino. She is survived by her son-in-law, Joshua Smith (Melody) of Fredericksburg, TX; her sisters, Alejandrina Merino Sanchez (Celso) of Tyler, TX, Consuelo Merino Flores of Johnson City, TX; and her sister-in-law, Lupe Merino of Bastrop, TX. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

She was one of thirteen children. She graduated from Bastrop High School, Bastrop, Texas and shortly a fterwards began her career at Economy Furniture in Austin, TX. Subsequently, she relocated to Stonewall, Texas, in 1976 later moving to Fredericksburg, where she ultimately established her residence. She was employed by the Fredericksburg Independent School District from April 2, 1979 - June 30, 2004, working under, John Walch, Mike Wuest, and Dr. Marc Williamson, until her retirement. She also engaged in volunteer work with the Boys & Girls Club and contributed her time at the Good Samaritan Center.

Aunt Mary loved having her nieces and nephews visit, providing them opportunities to feed the deer, fish at the tank and taking them on road trips. As they grew older, she entertained them by showing them around Fredericksburg. She took great pleasure in utilizing her arts and crafts skills to contribute to others. She enjoyed working in her yard as she was able and often checked on others' wellness despite her own physical discomfort. She was a strong and independent woman and had her physical difficulties, never allowing you to see her pain. She relied on her faith, and she'd always bounce back.

Mary was preceeded in death by her daughter Catherine Ann Smith, her parents Eufronio and Maria (Mendoza) Merino, sisters Raquel Flores, Angelina Pacheco, Pelegrina Pacheco, Lily Coy, Herlinda Foster, brothers Pedro, Raul, Gilbert, Roberto, and Eufronio Merino, Jr.

A memorial service will be Saturday August 30, 2025 from 10:00am - 12:00pm in the John William Klein Meeting Room at Market Platz in Fredericksburg TX.