Mary Ellen Velasquez was born in Phoenix, Arizona on March 23, 1958 and passed away peacefully at home on April 13, 2012 surrounded by her family. She is survived by her partner, Gustavo Ayala; son, Joseph Ayala; daughter, Pearl Ayala; brothers, Ignacio, Arturo, Jesus, Jr., David, Gilbert and John Velasquez; Sisters, Lorenza Alcaraz, Esther Sandoval, Teresa Perez and Lupe Tapia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesus, Sr. and Maria Velasquez and brothers, Alfredo and Joseph Velasquez.

Visitation will be Tuesday, April 17, 2012, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a Prayer Service to begin at 7:00 PM at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 4th Street, Gilroy.

Funeral service will be Wednesday, April 18th at 11:00 AM at Habing Family Funeral Home.

Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, 900 First Street, Gilroy.