Veronica "Vero" Becerra-Soto

Veronica Becerra Soto, 53, of Pearland, TX passed away on December 17th, 2023 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Veronica was born on April 10, 1970, in Venezuela to Tharsis Becerra and Riccio Becerra. As a child, she was always very active, inquisitive, and creative. She discovered her passion for healthy living and exercise early on from swimming at age 2, strength and conditioning in her teens, to winning her first bodybuilding competition at 18! She watched a Jane Fonda video and told her cousins that she would teach like that one day!

In the early 90s, she was an aerobics instructor in Caracas, Venezuela. She was then hired to be a part of the entertainment team at a hotel resort on Margarita Island. In addition to directing recreational activities for guests, she was also the master of ceremonies for many of the shows at the resort. She was always very charismatic and one of the most popular entertainers among the guests. She was then promoted to be the entertainment director for a new resort on another nearby island, Curacao.

Following her heart, Veronica came to the US and started her lifelong career in the health and fitness industry as a trainer, nutritionist, and gym owner. She was named one of Houston’s top fitness professionals by the Houston Chronicle in 2020. She was dedicated to helping others achieve their fitness goals regardless of age or physical limitations. Veronica expertly tailored nutrition plans and training regimens to each client’s fitness level and objectives touting natural training, nutrition philosophies, and honest hard work. Veronica possessed an incredible work ethic and naturally connected with people. Those who trained with her can attest to the fact that at each session, they got more than just a workout. Her training style was considerate, innovative, challenging, inspiring, and fun, which often caused her clients to become friends. She was a supportive cheerleader, counselor, and life coach to many. Every engagement with her was mind, body, and soul connecting and often filled with lots of smiles and laughter. Everyone who encountered Veronica became a better person.

Her creativity inspired her to keep trying new things. Her love of fashion led her to styling clients and even custom-designing clothing that could rival NYC Fashion Week! She channeled her creativity into making balloon designs and arches for events. She was a community organizer, community health advocate, podcast guest, and confidence coach.

Veronica was extremely dedicated to her family and selflessly devoted the latter part of her life to taking care of her sister Caro. Her loving cousins and friends encircled her life and were always a part of her vibrant life. A passionate animal lover, Veronica considered her dogs to be members of her family and her closest confidantes. She fostered, took in, and looked after many dogs while also participating in local rescue operations and helping any lost animals she encountered.

Veronica was a very spiritual person, studied the Holy Bible and modern theologians, and found great peace in life’s mysteries through her strong Christian faith and love. She was amazed by the countless blessings that continued to show up in her life during her darkest moments. Her faith kept her strong during her long battle with cancer and led her to be at peace with her life and her next chapter.

She often spoke about how much she loved the people in her life and hoped they knew how much she loved and appreciated them. Veronica’s prayer was for those she left behind to not mourn her loss, but instead celebrate the lives we have to the fullest. This is the best way to honor her memory. For those who trained with her, she wants you to breathe, keep your core tight, stay balanced, and always strive for that next rep! Eat better, drink water, and stay active. Love yourself, forgive yourself and others, and love outwardly in all directions all the time.

Veronica is survived by her sister Caro, brother Riccio, cousins Mercedes, Nena, Indhira, Xavier and a host of family members who have been at her side on this journey for many years. She is preceded in death by her parents, cousin, and loving dog Cesar. Her love, vibrance, strength, and courage are a legacy and example for the village of friends, clients, neighbors, and so many others she blessed in countless ways.

The family would like and extend their immense gratitude to Dr. Niravath and nurses at the Houston Methodist Hospital, Dr. Kormilli—and especially to the angels from Fairmont Hospice-Thedie Green, Cecelia, Becky, Theresa, and Dee.