Manuela M. Matamoros

Weslaco- Manuela M. Matamoros, passed away on February 1, 2024, at Harlingen Medical Center. She was born on October 29, 1931, in Rosebud, Texas. 

As a teenager, Manuela worked at a packing shed while her future husband, Juan Matamoros, worked at “Las Tablitas” Weslaco Box. During this time, their paths crossed, and they embarked on a journey filled with love and companionship. Together, they faced life's challenges with resilience and forged a bond that would last a lifetime.

Manuela was strong and resilient. After Juan's untimely death in 1982, Manuela went back to work. She also learned to drive in 1987 and continued to earn a living to support herself for the rest of her life. 

Manuela was an exceptional prayer warrior who found solace in her faith. She attended St. Pius X Catholic Church for most of her life. Her devotion to God was evident in how she lived her life - with kindness, compassion, and selflessness.  Manuela's prayer life increased as prayers included children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family members. She also touched countless lives through her generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand. 

Aside from her commitment to her faith, Manuela had a range of hobbies and interests that brought joy to her life. She possessed remarkable sewing skills and used them to create beautiful clothes for her children. The pride she felt watching them wear her creations was immeasurable. 

Manuela showcased her culinary talents in the kitchen by cooking delectable tamales and countless other family favorites. Her dishes were often the highlight of family gatherings and left lasting memories for all who indulged in them. One of their most memorable dishes was her "Capirutada," a sweet Mexican pudding with mixed fruits. Manuela loved listening to music while she was busy in the kitchen. 

Manuela's green thumb was admired by all who witnessed the beauty of her meticulously maintained yard. Her dedication to gardening yielded breathtaking floral displays that brought tranquility to those who visited her home. Manuela was also self-taught; she knew details about every flower and when and how to plant them to get the most favorable bloom. Additionally, she shared a deep affection for animals and had a faithful parrot by her side for many years.

Above all else, Manuela's proudest accomplishments were reflected in the lives she nurtured – her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She showered them with love, guidance, and support, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Her legacy will continue through the lessons she imparted and the memories shared by her adoring family.

Manuela will be fondly remembered for her nurturing spirit, unwavering faith, and extraordinary love for her family.

Manuela is preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Fedencia (De Leon) Marines; her loving husband, Juan Matamoros; grand-daughters, Karina Nicole De La Rosa and Monika Alcorta; sons-in-law, Erasmo Anzaldua and Ernesto Trejo, siblings, Maria de Jesus Garcia (Domingo), San Juana Medellin (Joquin), and Antonio Marines. 

She is survived by her children, Minerva Anzaldua (Erasmo+), Maricela Alcorta (Joseph), Pedro Matamoros (Martha), Marivel M. Trejo (Ernesto+), and Juan "Johnny" Matamoros (Yolanda), siblings, Candalaria Gutierrez (Juan+), Esperanza Madrigal (Bernabe+), Miguel Marines (Imelda), Arturo Marines (Juanita), and Jesus Marines (Esther), sister in law, Paula Marines, grandchildren, Maria Alicia Urrea (J.R.), Julian Anzaldua, Erasmo Anzaldua Jr., Juan Anzaaldua, Marcos Anzaldua (Alexis), Eric Anzaldua, Melanie Alcorta (Luis Gonzalez), Lisa Alcorta, Pedro Matamoros, Angelica Barrera (Vicente), Javier Matamoros (Aurora), Cassandra Matamoros, Emmanuel Martinez, Jose Martinez Jr., Juan "Junior" Matamoros, Javier Matamoros (Mona), Jeremy Matamoros, and Julissa Matamoros, thirty-four  great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with a rosary at 7 pm. Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, February 7, at St. Pius X Catholic Church at 10 am. After the Mass, Manuela will rest at Highland Memorial Park in Weslaco.