Maria Valdez Garza

Maria Valdez Garza, a woman of unwavering faith and a loving mother, passed away on October 31, 2023, in New Edinburg, Arkansas, surrounded by her family. Born on January 28, 1932, in Alice, Texas, Maria dedicated her life to her family and was a beacon of strength and encouragement.

Maria took pride in being a mother who found her calling as a homemaker and caregiver, nurturing her five children and raising them to become successful individuals. Her devotion to her family knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones.

In her earlier years Maria worked tirelessly as a housewife, teaching her children essential values and life skills. She was a woman of boundless patience and love, always offering words of encouragement to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, saying, "You can do it. I know you can do it." Her positive outlook on life and her unwavering belief that "can't" had no place in her vocabulary served as a source of inspiration to all who knew her.

Beyond her roles as a mother and homemaker, Maria found solace in her garden, tending to her beautiful flowers. She also had a deep passion for sewing and crocheting. Her creativity and love for these activities brought joy to her life.

Maria's strong faith in God was a cornerstone of her life, and she instilled the importance of faith and the values of unity, care, and love within her family. Her enduring marriage of 64 years to her late husband, Manuel, was a testament to the commitment and love they shared. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary by receiving the sacrament of marriage.

Maria also enjoyed spending time at the home of her youngest daughter, Diana Watts, where she felt a special connection with nature and the land. She passed down to her family the importance of taking care of each other and loving God; leaving a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering love.

Maria is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Manuel Garza. She is survived by three sisters and one brother. In addition to her five children, Melba Trujillo (Oscar) from New Braunfels; Viola Brown (Bob) from MeadowLakes; Richard Garza (Linda) from Portland; Minerva Thomas (Keith) from New Edinburg, AR; Diana Watts from New Edinburg, AR, Maria is survived by nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Maria Valdez Garza's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all those fortunate enough to know her. Her life serves as a lasting example of faith, love, and the boundless belief that, with determination, one can overcome any obstacle. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Services will be handled by Resthaven Funeral Home in Sinton, Texas, with a church service to follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Church also in Sinton. Maria will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband in Mathis, Texas, where they will find eternal peace together. May she rest in peace.