Maria Garza

On January 17, 2020, God’s hands opened once again to take home our beloved angel, Maria “Mother” Rodriguez Garza at age 91. Maria was born on September 12, 1928 in San Antonio, Texas to Juan and Margarita Rodriguez.

Maria spent her early childhood in San Antonio and then eventually moved to Lamesa, Texas. In 1943, she married the love of her life, Doroteo “Father” Garza Sr., with whom she raised eight children. In 1954, the family moved to Hobbs, New Mexico. In addition to being a homemaker, Maria also retired from Hobbs Municipal Schools.

Maria was called “Mother” by everyone who knew her and as she grew older her family lovingly started referring to her as “Little Mother.” Although small in stature, her influence on her family’s life was monumental. There was no greater role model for being a good wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and most importantly of all, a faithful Christian. There was never a more devoted wife. When her husband grew ill she was permanently by his side always trying to lift his spirits by singing “You Are My Sunshine.” She was the best mother her children could have prayed for and was greatly loved and cherished by her husband of 67 years.

Mother was a member of Templo Alabanza church.  Alongside her husband, she was very committed to the church for many years; from being a bookkeeper to a tamale maker. The greatest gift Mother bestowed to her family was the gift of prayer. She prayed each day for her family because their salvation was very important to her and she wanted her entire family to serve the Lord. She has set an enduring example for all of us to follow.

Anyone blessed enough to have sat at her table cannot forget what an excellent cook she was. Many family members cook using her recipes but none can ever replicate her food in quite the same way, hers was simply better. She took great pride in her home and that was evident in how immaculate and beautifully decorated she always kept it. Mother loved spending time with her family and the many family gatherings she hosted in her home are among the happiest memories they have. She loved music and loved singing at church. She was also extremely proud to be a Tejana and loved Tejano music. Even when she felt poorly, her daughters had to only play some Tejano music and her eyes would light up. Her frequent trips to Birmingham, Alabama to see her family reflected her love of travel, even if it was just down the street to look at the scenery. Mother and Father were always the best dressed couple in the room. Her love of fashion continued even as she grew older with the added help of her daughters. It was always important to her to look her best.

Mother enjoyed a long and full life, always surrounded by her devoted family. Mother shared her wisdom with her family and the lessons she taught us will never be forgotten. Mother knew us best and loved us the most and there will never be another like her. We are a strong family because a strong woman raised us.

Maria was preceded in death by her parents; Juan and Margarita Rodriguez, husband; Doroteo Garza Sr., brothers; Chris and Joe Rodriguez, sister; Cesaria Rodriguez, daughter and son-in-law; Yolanda and George Scott, son; Raymond Garza, grandchildren; Joseph Lopez and Veronica Scott, and great-granddaughter; Amira Scott. Cherishing her memory are her sons; Doroteo Jr.(Yvonne) and Ray Garza, her daughters; Ruby Villegas (Salvador), Betty Mata, Rachel McCain (Richard), Teresa Bravo (Phillipe), her brother; Raul Rodriguez, her sister; Beatrice Cobarrubio, 29 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Pallbearers: Ray Garza, Jesse Lopez, George Scott, Justin Villegas, Juan Roberto Garza, Elijah McCain, Charles McCain, Xavier Sosa, and Christian Lopez

Honorary Pallbearers: Jennifer Koester, Jannell Villegas, Rebecca Wisener, Elizabeth Paredes, Danielle Mata Sosa, Desirae Mata, Telisha Martinez, and Shantell Lastra