Minerva C. Garza

Minerva “Minnie” C. Garza, a beloved matriarch whose life was beautifully woven into the fabric of Weslaco, passed away on July 12, 2025, at Knapp Medical Center. Born on March 6, 1934, Minerva was the third eldest of nine siblings. She stepped naturally into the role of caregiver from a young age—nurturing both her family and community with grace and devotion throughout her life.

She was raised in a pioneering family that owned Cardenas Grocery Store on Texas Avenue, where she learned the value of hard work and hospitality from her parents. It was there that she met her future husband, Sam, who was a frequent visitor to the store. Their love blossomed over time, and in 1968, they eloped—beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in love and commitment.

Minerva had an innate sense of fashion that was ahead of her time. She worked at the Five and Dime, which later became Wells of Weslaco, where her eye for style and warm customer service left a lasting impression. Her personal style was as vibrant as her personality, and she formed lasting friendships with coworkers and customers alike.

Motherhood was one of Minerva’s greatest joys. With a nurturing spirit and entrepreneurial drive, she opened a daycare in her home, which she successfully operated for ten years. Despite her busy schedule, she never missed a Weslaco Panthers game—whether cheering on her sons from the stands or beaming with pride as her daughter performed as a cheerleader.

Though life circumstances required her to leave school early, Minerva never stopped valuing education. She earned her GED later in life, becoming a role model for perseverance and lifelong learning. She went on to dedicate 25 years to the Weslaco Independent School District, where she inspired students and colleagues alike with her love, compassion, and tireless work ethic.

A devout Christian and faithful Baptist, Minerva’s life was anchored in her faith. Sundays were special, as she helped her siblings dress in their best before walking together to Las Palmas Baptist Church. She found joy singing alongside her friends in the choir, and her gentle leadership and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew her.

Minerva also expressed her love through food. Always eager to please others, she poured her heart into every dish, often cooking with her treasured molcajete. Whether making tamales with her mother and sisters or preparing meals that celebrated her heritage, Minerva’s kitchen was a place of love, laughter, and tradition.

She loved to travel—from countless trips to Mexico with her mother and sisters, to visiting her brother’s family in Florida, and taking road trips with her sisters, affectionately known as “The Golden Girls.” She cherished these adventures, along with simpler joys like playing bingo with friends and sharing Spanish jokes that filled the room with laughter.

Among her greatest blessings were her three grandchildren, whose presence brought her endless joy and pride. Minerva cultivated a home filled with creativity, kindness, and love—a true reflection of the woman she was.

Minerva was preceded in death by her parents, Procopio and Anita (Loa) Cardenas; her brothers, Juan Loa Cardenas (Minerva) and Lazaro Cardenas Sr. (Eloisa Cardenas); nephews, Procopio Cardenas (who died when he was five), Aaron Cardenas, and Jonathan Diaz; and nieces, Gloria McFarland and Louisa Hernandez.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Samuel “Sam” Garza; their children, Paul Garza, Luanna Gracia (Marc), and Sam Garza Jr.; their grandchildren, Ted, Gabriel, and Benjamin; her siblings, Carlota Tejada, Carmelina Cardenas (Humberto+), Concepcion “Chon” Cardenas (Elva), Alonzo Cardenas (Norma), Carolina “Emma” Garza (Neto+), and Cleotilde Graham (Tim), sisters in law, Minerva Cardenas, Terry Cardenas, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

Her celebration of life will take place at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco, where friends and family can come together to honor a remarkable woman who lived a life rich in love and service. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM. She will be laid to rest at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas, at 1:00 PM on the same day. Serving as pallbearers will be Grandsons: Ted, Gabriel & Benjamin Gracia and nephews: Norberto, Danny, and Jaime Cardenas.

As we reflect on Minerva's life, let us be inspired by her indomitable spirit, her caring nature, and her enduring love—a legacy that remains alive in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.