Maria Elena Gonzales

August 30, 1944 - November 26, 2016

Maria Elena Gonzales (Ama), 72, of Midland; our wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Saturday, November 26, 2016, at her residence. Maria Elena was born on August 30, 1944 to Santos, Sr. and Consuelo Franco in Midland, Texas. Maria Elena was married to the love of her life, Thomas R. Gonzales, Sr., for 58 years and had six daughters and one son. Ama enjoyed going to the bingo and the casino, playing cards with family, watching her novela's, and the Texas Rangers play baseball, rooting on the Dallas Cowboys every time they played, and most of all she loved spending time with her family. She was always the happiest when her whole family was all together under one roof eating, celebrating, and making memories. Ama was always there for each one of us in one way or another and would go out of her way to help anyone in need. Her faith in God is what kept her strong. Our Ama will be missed today, tomorrow and always. We love you Ama!! Maria Elena was preceded in death by her mother, father, two brothers, and one sister. She is survived by her loving husband; her seven children, Lucy (Steve) Chandler, Cindy (Mike) Leon, Joann Gonzales, Brenda (Heather) Porras, Thomas (Lisa) Gonzales, Jr., Melinda (Martin) Baeza, and Michelle Bernal; and by 17 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind three sisters and four brothers. Thank You to Jacque with Home Hospice for helping us through this difficult time. Viewing will be held Tuesday, November 29, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., with a Rosary starting at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday night at Lewallen-Garcia-Pipkin Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel as well. Burial will follow at Serenity Memorial Garden Cemetery. Pallbearers for the service will be Antonio Chandler, Louis Chandler, Mike Leon, Jr., Joshua Martinez, Carlos Gonzales, Tommy Garcia, Albert Grado, and Anthony Grado.