Maria Elsa Gaona

Maria Elsa Gaona, affectionately known as Wela and Triple G, was born on July 25, 1954, in Corpus Christi, Texas. She passed away suddenly in her sleep on January 26, 2025 at the age of 70 in Bishop, Texas, surrounded by loved ones.

Maria dedicated her life to her family, finding immense joy in spending time with her family, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a beloved mother to Juan M. Gaona Jr. (Minerva Gaona), Leticia Morales (Cyrus Bryant), and Christine Navarro (Anthony Navarro). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Josephine M. Gaona, Cynthia A. Morales, Fabian Morales, Beatrice A. Garcia, Jalice A. Navarro, Ivan A. Navarro, Jazmyne A. Bryant, Aiden J. Gonzalez, and Mia A. Bryant; and her great-grandchildren, Catalina E. Gonzalez and Izabella R. Gonzalez.

She is preceded in death by her beloved sisters, Sylvia Hodges, and Gloria Sanchez; brother, Jose L. Sanchez; and her father, Francisco Sanchez. Maria is also survived by her mother, Juanita Reyes; stepfather, Ezequiel Reyes; and siblings, Rosalinda Sanchez, Diana Rios, Nelda Sanchez, and Angelita Cantu.

Maria had a fulfilling career, working for many years at Christus Spohn and Walmart. She loved nothing more than attending church, dancing, and helping others.

Her vibrant spirit and devotion to family will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

A visitation for Maria will be held Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78415, where a Prayer Service will be held that same evening at 7:00 PM. Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Memory Gardens Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.