Maria Cristina Gerardo

In Loving Memory of Maria Cristina Gerardo

1956 – 2025 Maria Cristina (Hinojosa) Gerardo, 69, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 6th, in Mansfield, TX, cradled in the arms of her four daughters and her devoted husband, Jose. In life and in passing, she remained our North Star—forever guiding, forever loved, forever cherished.

Born in 1956 in Phoenix, Arizona, Cristina was the heart and soul of her family. Her life was a testament to boundless compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to those around her. She had a rare gift for making people feel welcome, heard, and valued—whether through her warm smile, her gentle wisdom, or her steady presence.

Cristina devoted herself to a life of service. She gave generously of her time and heart to organizations including the Salvation Army, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and numerous local charities. She also worked tirelessly to support military service members across Arizona, Oklahoma, and Texas. In recognition of her remarkable contributions, she was commissioned as a Yellow Rose of Texas in 2006 by Governor Rick Perry.

She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Jose Gerardo; her four daughters: Andrea (Rudy) Quintela, Esperanza (Rodolfo) Apodaca, Monique (Ryan) Rudman, and Dominique (Christina) Phongsavath; her 9 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; along with many cherished relatives and dear friends.

Cristina’s legacy of kindness, grace, and resilience lives on in all who knew and loved her.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

She will be missed beyond words.

“The most important thing is, even when we’re apart, I’ll always be with you.”

~ Winnie the Pooh

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 5 PM - 8 PM with Rosary at 6:30 PM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85018. Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at St. Mary's Basilica, 231 N. Third Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85004. Burial to follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.