Mary Rivas Oaks

Mary Rivas Oaks was greeted with jubilance in her eternal home and felt the warm, caring arms of her Savior on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

Maria and Julian Rivas welcomed Mary to the world in Colorado City, Texas during the summer of 1943 on June 10. Her parents later moved the entire family to the tall city of Midland, Texas, where she spent the rest of her life.

Mary was a proud member of the Bulldog band and graduate of Midland High School. Mary was a hard, diligent worker, sometimes holding down up to three jobs at once in the oil and gas industry.  She adored being a member of the Desk and Derrick Club due to the comradery that came from the friends she made.

Mary’s life forever changed on June 17, 1963, when she gave birth to her gorgeous daughter, Inez, forging an eternal bond that kept them both grounded through the hardships and glories life inevitably brings. Their deep dedication to each other was a beautiful testament to the depths of real love.

In 1979, Mary met Bill Oaks, who would prove to be the love of her life. They would later marry on April 14, 1984, and Mary’s family doubled with the addition of Bill’s daughters, Traci and Kim. Mary and Bill owned and operated a successful Mom and Pop business, Oaks Distributing Company. After 25 years they sold the business to pursue traveling in their RV with church friends and attending quartet gospel music concerts. During their marriage, they were members of Second Baptist Church of Midland and served on the bus ministry.

Mary is remembered for her effervescent spirit, deeply kind heart, everlasting faith in Christ, the love of her dog, Lexi and the smiles and laughter she brought to those surrounding her. She relished the time in her stunning rose garden in the beauty of her backyard.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Bill, her sister, Eva Rivas Jaso and brother, Adam (Chelo) Rivas. Mary leaves behind daughters, Inez Reyes, Traci Hiltz, Kim Smoke along with brother, JD Rivas and sister, Estela Rivas Guarnero and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews with other family including Mark Gallagher, Norma Alicia Kvarda and Anna Maree Ramos. The past several years have been made easier by the love, support, and thoughtfulness of numerous caregivers that faithfully served Mary in her time of need; Inez will eternally be grateful for all their genuine compassion.

Viewing will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, 8:00am-5:00pm at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home in Midland.  Funeral service will be held 10:00am, Monday, September 29, 2025 at Bellview Baptist Church with burial to follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com

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