Evangelina Reyes Gamboa

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beautiful mother, Evangelina Reyes Gamboa, age 91, following her 12-year struggle with Alzheimer’s. She was born to Alfredo Reyes and Maria Refugio Reyes-Guerrero on February 12, 1933, in Kerrville Texas. Full of compassion, love and laughter, she was the true heart and soul of her family. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained resilient, always brightening the lives of those around her. Her kindness extended beyond family and friends. Her late husband affectionately called her “Santa Claus” due to her boundless generosity-whether it be financial, emotional or spiritual.

Evangelina began working at the age of 14 as a nanny and later became a seamstress at Fine Silver and lastly, a housekeeper at Brooke Army Medical Center. While enjoying being a full-time mother, she continued to work as a volunteer at Little Flower Church, as a member with the Altar Society. This led her to become a Discalced Carmelite of the Secular Order, an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, and a member of the church choir. She was also a proud member of the Purple Heart Society and the Ladies of the Auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus, in support of her husband. Evangelina’s gifts were many but her unwavering faith stood out. As a devout Catholic, she faithfully attended daily mass for many years.

Evangelina is preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Raymond L. Gamboa, and son, John Alexander Gamboa. She is survived by her children Gloria Cardenas (Jerry), Teresa Ovalle (Frank), Raymond Gamboa, Gina Boyer (Mike), Nick Gamboa (Omega), Michelle Ruiz (Robert), Tina Duffy (Joseph), John Gamboa, Christine Cavazos (Ricardo), Mercedes Briones. She helped raise her stepchildren Richard Gamboa (Gail), Gloria Gamboa-Cardenas (Pete), Stephen Gamboa. She is also survived by her numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Evangelina entered eternal rest while in the presence of family and will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations on the Alzheimer’s Association Tribute Page https://act.alz.org/goto/vangiegamboa, in memory of Evangelina (Vangie) Gamboa. Checks may be mailed to 1100 Northwest Loop 410, Suite 302, San Antonio, TX 78213. Mrs. Gamboa was very involved with the Carmelite Nuns. Donations can be made to the Discalced Carmelite Nuns through their website at: http://www.carmelsanantonio.org/

A Visitation will be held Monday, June 10, 2024 at 5:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary at 7:00 p.m., to be recited at Trevino Funeral Home (226 Cupples Rd). A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Little Flower Basilica. Procession to Evangelina’s final resting place, Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery to follow.