Rima H Corral

Rima was a dedicated educator who spent her career teaching children from kindergarten through third grade. She received her degrees from the University of Houston and Texas Southern University, specializing in music and teacher education. Her passion for helping young learners guided everything she did.

Rima shared a lifelong partnership with her late husband, Edward A. (“Eddie”) Corral, who served as Fire Chief for the City of Houston a fifty year career dedicated to the Houston Fire Department. Together, with a love for music, they performed in a small trio band, entertaining at social events across the Houston area. Rima was the heart of their home and a strong supporter of Eddie’s service to the community and abroad.

Rima’s contributions to children’s literacy reached far beyond the classroom. She proudly created and hosted an educational television program on Houston PBS Channel 8, where she read children’s books and translated them from English to Spanish. The show inspired young readers for over fifteen years, becoming one of her proudest accomplishments.

She was also a published children’s book author, writing two books that reflected her natural love and commitment to education. Beyond her professional work, Rima was an active volunteer with the Cancer Fighters of Houston, devoting her time and energy to helping others.

Rima fiercely fought for the rights of first responders’ families — working alongside her husband to help pass legislation ensuring that widowed firefighters continue receiving pension benefits after the loss of a spouse. Her dedication to education, music, public service, and family will forever be remembered and cherished.

Rima was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward A. Corral, and by her parents, Adrian and Dora Martinez. She is survived by her sons, Edward L. Corral and Robert J. Corral; her granddaughter, Caitlyn A. Corral; her brother and sister-in-law, Ray and Jamie Martinez; and by many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Rima will be remembered for her grace, creativity, and unwavering dedication to children, family, and community.