Mary Michelle Diaz entered Heaven on Sept. 2, 2018, in her home in Prescott Valley, Arizona. Mary was born on June 9, 1959, in Greeley, Colorado.

She spent many years growing up in multiple places, including Iowa, Phoenix, Arizona, Flagstaff, Arizona, and finally settling in Prescott Valley, Arizona, with her husband and children.

Mary dedicated her life to raising her family and serving others in her community. She played a vital role in the Humboldt Unified School District, serving for the last 24 years. The reach that Mary had was far beyond anything imaginable. She could be found collecting needed supplies for underprivileged children in the district or planting her favorite flowers in her garden at home. She always placed everyone far above herself, no questions asked. She was a pillar of strength in the community, and the glue that held her family together.

Mary is preceded in death by her father, James W. Edwards; her brother, Matthew D. Edwards; son-in-law, Scott M. Brainard; and grandpuppy, Aspen.

Mary is survived by her husband of 38 years, Carlos M. Diaz; daughter, Christy Alley (Nicholas); son, Aaron Diaz (Jera); daughter, Alicia Brainard; grandchildren, Nicholas, Maya, Sarah, Hayden, Kaylee and Ashton; and grand-furbabies, Makana and Ashes; mother, Elenor Edwards; sisters, Elizabeth Ceballos (Armando) Angella Edwards; and brother, John Edwards (Stefanie). In addition she leaves behind many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please considering donating to the HUSD Kids Closet at the district office or plant a butterfly bush in her memory. Butterfly bush seeds will be provided at her celebration of life on Sunday, Sept. 9, at Fain Park from 2 to 4 p.m.

Mary has gained her butterfly wings, but our hearts weren’t ready.

Arrangements entrusted to Sunrise Funeral Home.

Information provided by survivors.