Mary Lou Carrasco

Mary Lou Carrasco (Fontes) April 16, 1947 – November 3, 2025 Mary Lou Carrasco, born Mary Lou Fontes on April 16, 1947, in Bakersfield, California, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, surrounded by her children and granddaughters while listening to her favorite music. Mary grew up in Buttonwillow and later moved to Shafter after marrying, where she raised her family and lived for 33 years before settling back in Bakersfield, where she spent the rest of her life. She was preceded in death by her beloved sons Mark, Patrick, and Matthew; her parents, Ygnacio and Aurora Fontes; and her brother, Jr. She is survived by her loving son Randy (and partner Mary Fimbres); her daughters Monica, Danielle (and husband Don), and Teresa; her siblings Ida, Helen, Arnold, Teddy, and Rodney; 19 grandchildren; and an incredible 57 great-grandchildren. Mary was a woman of remarkable talent and heart. A gifted seamstress, crafter, and artist, she had an eye for beauty and a knack for creating it. She was known throughout the community for her beautiful Shafter High homecoming dresses and her ability to look at anything and say, “I can make that—and make it better,” and she always did. Her greatest accomplishment, however, was her family. Mary was a devoted and supportive mother who never missed her children’s events, and a proud grandmother who shared her wisdom, recipes, and love with generations to follow. Her kitchen was filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her famous Mexican cooking—a tradition that will live on through her family. A woman of strong faith, Mary was a dedicated volunteer at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Shafter for many years. Her belief in God guided her life, and her strength, independence, and kindness inspired everyone who knew her. She adored her “fur grandbabies” as much as her human ones, and in her later years, she enjoyed watching YouTube videos and continuing to learn new things—always curious, always growing. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 11th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Mission Funeral Home, with the Rosary beginning at 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, November 12th, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Francis Church in Bakersfield, followed by graveside services from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Reception following graveside at Ford Theatre, 1101 E Lerdo Hwy. Shafter, CA 93263. Mary’s legacy of love, creativity, and strength will continue to live on through her family and all whose lives she touched.

Mary Lou Carrasco

April 16, 1947 - November 3, 2025

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info

Mary Lou Carrasco

April 16, 1947 - November 3, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info