Mary Catherine (Strautman) Sepulveda

Mary Catherine Sepulveda (née Strautman) was born on July 16, 1943, in San Francisco, California and entered into eternal rest on January 6, 2026, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving children. Mary was raised in Culver City within the greater Beverly Hills, California area. She attended and boarded at the prestigious, though now sadly shuttered, Marywood High School for Girls. Throughout her life, Mary embodied curiosity, determination, and independence.

In addition to being a daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and fierce businesswoman, Mary was a lifelong learner. She earned her degrees from Antioch University. And she continued her education throughout adulthood, enthusiastically taking courses at Los Angeles City College and various vocational institutions, especially when the subject involved her greatest passion: cooking! Mary delighted in the art of food and was known to own nearly every specialized kitchen tool, small appliance, pan, and dish imaginable. Whenever she had the chance she would serve her family incredible meals that she usually spent all day preparing, with a big smile and her signature “Bon Appétit!” sign-off.

Mary had a deep love of international travel and proudly collected airline miles and passport stamps. She visited dozens of countries over her lifetime and delighted in immersing herself in local cultures and experiences. She was always on the hunt for the best hole-in-the-wall BBQ or taco joint. She never missed an opportunity to try a Michelin-starred restaurant or one she had carefully researched, cataloged, and saved for a future adventure.

A Certified Public Accountant, Mary owned and operated Accu-Records Services in San Marino, California, for over 40 years. She spent her adult life in the Pasadena area, a place she cherished deeply and proudly called home. It was there that she raised her two beloved children, Kathryn and Vincent, as a single mom in the 1960’s - 1970’s (if you know, you know). Mary was an extraordinarily hard worker who appreciated the finer things in life. She found joy in showering her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with unforgettable gifts and experiences. Mary was not traditionally “maternal,” but her love was undeniable and unwavering. When those she loved needed protection, her fierce “mama grizzly” spirit emerged without hesitation.

Mary is survived by her children: daughter Kathryn Sepulveda-Canning (Tom) and son Vincent Sepulveda (Wendy); her grandchildren Rachael, Robert, Brent (Amber), Anna, and Madison; and her great-grandchildren Anderson, Adelynn, Mason, Ada Jo, and little Vincent. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Pam Strautman, the loving wife of her late brother Richard Strautman, Jr., as well as her brother Phillip Strautman, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Kathryn Strautman (née Lyon); her father, Richard Strautman; her stepmother of over 40 years, Marcelline Strautman (née Darcy); her brother, Richard Strautman, Jr.; and her grandson, Bradley Hamilton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Mary’s honor to PFLAG or The Trevor Project. These organizations support her zeal for LGBTQ+ rights, visibility, and advocacy. 

Mary’s strength, intellect, generosity, and fierce love will be remembered always by those fortunate enough to have known her.

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