Mary Ellen Arocha, aged 60, died peacefully on July 4, 2014 in Irving, Texas, after a brief struggle with breast cancer. Mary Ellen was born July 25, 1953, in San Angelo, Texas, the daughter of Juan & Julia Gonzales, the sister of Johnny Gonzales, Brenda Gonzales, Orlando Gonzales, James Gonzales, Sonny Gonzales, Raymond Gonzales and Roseanne Gonzales, the mother of Lisamarie Arocha & Joshua Arocha and Grandmother of Luisa Marie Cardona.The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for her during her last illness. She also leaves behind numerous loving relatives and friends. Mom A Tribute to Mary Ellen Arocha, Sunrise July 25, 1953, Sunset July 4, 2014 By Lisamarie Arocha, July 2014 My mother departed this world recently. She wasn't here long…sixty years. The oldest of eight from Julia and Juan. A traveler, a homemaker, a friend. She worked hard for her employer, her community, and her family. Her Catholicism grounded her in faith, in joy, and in love. Her name was Mary Ellen. My mother departed this world recently. She didn't say goodbye or let me know when I might see her again. And she left so much behind. Every day I hear her laughter in my brother's eyes. Every night I see her caring in my daughter's heart. I can feel her passion in my drive to always be better than I was the day before. Her name was Mary Ellen. My mother departed this world recently. But she is still here haunting my waking moments. Her positive nature and her zest for life remain with me. Always happy, always cheerful, always adventurous, always bright. I can smell her cooking gingerbread, yams, cakes, and cookies. Their aroma ignites the memories of a generation missed. Her name was Mary Ellen. My mother departed this world recently. I know that she is not far away. She argues with me and pushes me to new growth. She embraces me with her affection and hope. She kisses my cheek at night before I fall asleep. She was my mother and I loved her…I love her. Her name was…Mom.