Librada "Lala" Elizabeth Sepulveda's Obituary
Weslaco – Librada “Lala” Elizabeth Sepulveda, 95, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Avalon Memory Care in Edinburg, surrounded by her loving family.
Lala, as she was affectionately known by family and friends, was born on February 10, 1931, in Garciasville, Texas, to Panfilo and Blacita (Garcia) Pedraza. She was raised in Edinburg and graduated from Edinburg High School, where she formed lifelong friendships that began in elementary school. She treasured these relationships, gathering monthly with her dear friends for luncheons that remained a highlight of her life until the COVID pandemic made them impossible.
Lala met her soulmate, Humberto “Beto” Sepulveda, during her senior year of high school. Known for her beauty and lively social circle, Lala quickly caught Beto’s attention. In an effort to win her heart—and perhaps keep other admirers at bay—Beto would treat her friends to hamburgers at lunchtime. Raised under strict guidance, Lala explained that her father, a preacher, did not allow her to date. Undeterred, Beto asked to meet her parents, and it wasn’t long before his charm, kindness, and natural warmth won them over. With her parents’ blessing, Lala and Beto married in 1948 and made their home in Weslaco.
Encouraged by her father to continue her education, Lala attended Pan American College, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Education. A lifelong learner, she went on to earn three master’s degrees in Reading, Supervision, and Diagnostics—all while working full time and raising their three children, Elma, Diana, and Humberto Jr. She often said, “If I can work, go to school, and be a mother, then anyone can do it.”
Lala dedicated 38 years to education, serving the communities of Weslaco, Donna, and Edcouch as a reading supervisor and diagnostician. Her passion for teaching and helping others left a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues. She had a charismatic personality and a unique ability to connect with students on their level. On one memorable day, she unknowingly wore mismatched shoes—one black and one navy. When she finally realized why her students were amused, she turned the moment into a lesson filled with laughter and grace. It was moments like these that reflected her humility and warmth. So beloved was Lala that students and colleagues affectionately nicknamed her “Gina,” after Italian actress Luigia “Gina” Lollobrigida.
Lala and Beto shared a deep love for life and adventure. Whether cruising the streets of Weslaco under the stars or traveling the world, they embraced every opportunity together. Through Beto’s career and their shared passion for travel, they visited Spain, Portugal, England, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Denmark, and Acapulco, as well as many destinations across the United States, including California, New York, Colorado, Arkansas, Ohio, and Michigan.
Their home was always filled with laughter and hospitality. Lala loved entertaining, often hosting weddings, showers, and gatherings for friends and family. She was known for her delicious cooking, especially her famous twice-baked potatoes. She also enjoyed gardening, reading, and, above all, teaching. Beyond her formal career, Lala taught English to adults and was instrumental in helping many achieve their dream of becoming American citizens through her dedication and care.
Her strong Christian faith was the foundation of her life. She loved sharing God’s word and faithfully hosted Bible studies in her home, touching many lives through her devotion, generosity, and compassion. Lala truly had a heart of gold and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Humberto “Beto” Sepulveda; her parents, Panfilo and Blacita Pedraza; her daughter-in-law, Olga Sepulveda; her sons-in-law, Alfredo Salinas and Rolando Marroquin; her granddaughter, Patti Sepulveda; her brothers, Noe, Tito, Panfilo Jr., and Rogelio Pedraza; and her sister, Angelica Gonzalez.
Lala is survived by her children, Elma Marroquin (Rolando†), Diane Salinas (Alfredo†), and Humberto Sepulveda Jr.; her sister, Rebecca Galvan (Rogelio "Roy"+) her grandchildren, Rolando “Roly” Marroquin Jr. (Magaly), Marcos Andres Marroquin (Marissa), Adriana Tonelli (Steve), Vanessa Salinas (Guillermo), Laura DeLeon (Jorge), and Humberto “Trae” Sepulveda III (Emily); and her many great-grandchildren: Giuliana, Blake, and Alyssa Diane Tonelli; Liam, Alec, and Jace DeLeon; Luka Valentin, Brodie, Arabella, Judah, and Noriah Sepulveda; Cristian, Abrielle, Abigail, Mia Sofia, Mauricio, and Diego Marroquin; and Esteban Cardenas, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Weslaco. Lala will be laid to rest beside the love of her life, Beto, at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco.
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