Mary Ruth Gonzales

Mary Ruth Leyba Gonzales, 89, of Midvale, Utah, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

She was born on August 16, 1935, in Peñasco, New Mexico, to Nicolas and Juanita Leyba. Mary Ruth was a woman of deep faith, enduring strength, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

On April 28, 1956, she married Eustaquio Gonzales, and together they built a strong and loving family until his passing. Mary Ruth was the proud mother of nine children and took great joy in her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her children: Lucille, Tony, Don, Rudy, and Ralph; her brother, Nick; and her sisters: Mary, Florence, and Frances. She leaves behind 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Mary Ruth was especially grateful for her granddaughter Dixie Hensley and great-grandson Michael Gonzales, whose loving care and presence were a true blessing in her later years. Their devotion brought her comfort, joy, and companionship, and she often spoke of how they were “good keepers” in her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eustaquio Gonzales; her children: Louise, Manuel, Elizabeth, and Ronald; her great-grandchild, Alejandro; her brothers: David, Gilbert, and John; and her sister, Ida.

A devout Catholic, Mary Ruth was a lifelong member of her parish. She sang in the church choir, helped organize bereavement dinners, and was an active member of the Legion of Mary Ruth and Guadalupanas. Her compassion and service were recognized when she was named Woman of the Year by her parish community.

Mary Ruth will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the deep love she had for her faith and family. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Theresa Church are requested in Mary Ruth's memory.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, June 30th at 11:00 AM at St. Therese Catholic Church, 7832 Allen St. Midvale, UT 84047, Viewing, Rosary and eulogy will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 AM also at St. Therese. Following the Mass, burial will take place at Redwood Cemetery, 6500 S. Redwood Rd, West Jordan, UT 84084

A luncheon will be held from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM at El Leon Negro, 9854 South 700 East, Sandy, UT 84070.