Rachel Aparicio Colunga

Rachel A. Colunga was born on August 4, 1945, in El Paso, TX., to Mauricio Jr. and Consuelo Aparicio.

She was a proud graduate of Bowie High School, and The University of Texas at El Paso, formally Texas Western, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She went on to educate El Paso’s youth as a first grade teacher, primarily at Clardy Elementary School for over 30 years. She was well known for her professionalism, dedication and the love and compassion in working with her students.

Rachel A. Colunga found great joy with the time she spent with friends and family. She was a devoted animal lover, and had a passion for tending the plants in her garden. She will be remembered for her unwavering love, friendship, generosity, and a joyful spirit. But most of all, her steadfast faith and her devotion to God.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Daniel P. Colunga. She is survived by her children, Robert A. (Catheline) Pichardo Sr. and Daniel A. (Ellen) Colunga. She is survived by her siblings, Rodolfo (Anita) Aparicio, Rebecca (Homer+) Marin, and Mauricio (Amelia) Aparicio III. Grandchildren: Jessica C. Pichardo, Robert A. (Desireé) Pichardo Jr., and Natalie R. Colunga. Great Grandchildren: Jeniveve C. Pichardo and Robert A. Pichardo III.

She was preceded in death by her parents Mr. & Mrs. Mauricio Jr. and Consuelo Aparicio. Siblings: Rogelio Aparicio and Ruben (Rosa+) Aparicio.

The visitation will be held on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 5-9 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 7 pm. Services will be held at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, TX 79915.

A Funeral Mass will take place at Cristo Rey Catholic Church, 8011 Williamette Ave., El Paso, TX 79907, on May 12, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. Graveside Service will follow at 1 p.m. at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave., El Paso, TX 79906.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be sent to the following charitable organizations: Food for the Poor, El Paso Humane Society, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, and The Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of El Paso.