Mary Louise Palazzo Thome, 84, of Houston, Texas peacefully passed away on August 17, 2023. Mary Louise was born December 5, 1938, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her late parents were first-generation Italian-Americans, Leonardo Palazzo, Sr. and Josephine Mendolia Palazzo.

Mary Louise attended The Academy of the Holy Angels High School in New Orleans. Her path crossed with her future husband, Clement Thome, on a memorable blind date, and they married two years later. Before relocating to Houston with Clem, Mary Louise worked as a legal secretary. Together, they lovingly raised their three children: Leonard, Michael, and Judy, in Huntwick Forest. Weekends were often filled with Clem working in his garden and Mary Louise preparing delicious feasts. Her culinary creations were adored by all who tasted them, and she cherished the act of nourishing those who graced their home.

Mary Louise was a dedicated member of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, where she attended daily Mass for many years and led the rosary. She was an active member of the Serrans organization.

To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as "Mama." Mary Louise had an unwavering devotion to her family, relishing the opportunity to cook their favorite dishes. She shared our cherished family traditions and forged unique connections with each family member.

Mary Louise is survived by her son, Dr. Leonard Thome, and his wife, Mary, her son Michael Thome, her daughter, Judy Thome Loosley, and husband, David, her grandchildren, Nicholas Thome, Virginia Thome, Lucy Biebel, Ryan Loosley, Matthew Loosley, Caroline Loosley, and her great-grandson, Michael Beal. She is also survived by her brothers, Joseph Palazzo and his wife, Linda, and Dr. Anthony Palazzo and his wife, Celia. Surviving sisters-in-law include Julie Palazzo, Ann Thome, and Janet Boyd, along with her husband, Jim, and a surviving brother-in-law, Michael Wicker.

Mary Louise was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Clement Thome, Jr., her parents, Leonardo and Josephine Palazzo, her brother, Leonardo M. Palazzo, Jr., sisters-in-law, Lynne Palazzo and Joan Wicker, and brother-in-law, Elden Thome.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Community in Spring, Texas. Very Rev. Norbert Maduzia, Jr., E.V., D. Min. will officiate the service, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and Mass commencing at 11:00 a.m. Pallbearers will include Nicholas Thome, Ryan Loosley, Matthew Loosley, Jude Palazzo, Mark Palazzo, Paul Palazzo, and Leo Palazzo. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary Louise's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.