Maria G. Worgull

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria G. Worgull, 88, of St. Marys, KS. Maria was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished matriarch who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, surrounded by her family.

Maria was born on May 20, 1936, in Juarez, Mexico, to Jesus and Concepcion Leaño. She was the eldest of nine children: Jesus, Angelina, Cristina, Concepción, Teresa, Eduardo, Hector and Jaime, and took on a nurturing role often helping in the home and providing guidance and support to her brothers and sisters. Maria attended the Jesus and Mary Academy in El Paso, TX, graduating in 1951. Her strong work ethic and keen intellect led her to serve at the American Consulate in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

On April 4th, 1964, Maria married the love of her life, Richard B. Worgull. Together, they had one daughter, Angela, and built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their marriage was a testament to devotion until Richard’s passing on November 26, 1993.

Maria was known for her kindness, quick-witted humor, culinary mastery, artistic talents, and her ability to make anyone feel at home. The family home was a haven where recipes became treasured traditions, and stories and laughter were shared over countless meals. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people, creating lasting friendships and meaningful relationships wherever she went. Her warmth and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Above all, Maria’s unwavering dedication to her family was her greatest legacy. She nurtured not only her child and grandchildren, but also countless friends and extended family members. Her daughter, Angela, and her grandchildren, Christopher, Victoria, Virginia, and Michael, will continue to carry on her traditions and embody her traits, using her life as a guiding example.

Maria’s Catholic faith was the pillar of her life, providing her strength through life’s challenges and joy in its blessings. From a very young age, she had a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and Baby Jesus, attending daily Mass, frequenting the sacraments and turning to Our Lord and The Blessed Mother for support and guidance in all her needs. Her strong faith, love, wisdom, and laughter will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her.

A visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 PM on Tuesday, December 17 at Piper Funeral Home, 714 Maple St. in St Marys followed by a rosary at 5:20 PM at The Immaculata Church, 701 N. 2nd St. A Sung Requiem Mass will be offered at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 18, also at The Immaculata. The burial will follow in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, Masses may be offered for the repose of Maria's soul.