Sylvia Pena Cortez

Sylvia P. Cortez, age 66, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She will be remembered for her warm heart, joyful spirit, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

Sylvia was born on February 2, 1960. Throughout her life, she brought kindness, laughter, and comfort to those who knew her. She had a generous heart and a beautiful way of making people feel welcome and loved.

Sylvia is survived by her loving husband of 31 years, Johnny Cortez. She is also survived by her sister Queta Saenz (PT Saenz), her brothers Abelardo Peña Jr. (Mary) and Noel Torres (Rosie), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her father, Abelardo Peña Sr., her mother, Maria S. Peña, and her sister, Lydia Ambriz.

Sylvia had a deep love for life and the simple joys it offered. She enjoyed gardening and reading, and she especially loved traveling and spending time with family and friends. Sylvia was known for hosting gatherings where she welcomed everyone with warmth and delicious home-cooked meals. She loved music and dancing, and she had a creative spirit that showed through her crafting and trying new recipes, often making the best desserts for those she loved.

She also cared deeply about supporting cancer awareness causes.

Above all, Sylvia treasured the time she spent with her loved ones and her beloved dog, Dominio, and her Cat Cotton. Her kindness, laughter, and generosity will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Honored to be a pallbearer are David Saenz, Jamie Pena, Adrian Pena, Andrew Ambriz, Daniel Palafox Jr., and Mark Castillo.

Sylvia’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched and the love she shared with her family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Mont Meta & Memorial Park, 26170 State Highway 345, San Benito, Texas 78586, on March 15, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with a Rosary at 6:00 pm.

A Funeral Church Service will take place at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 1509 New Combes Hwy, Harlingen, TX 78550, on March 16, 2026, at 10:00 am, followed by Burial at Mont Meta Memorial Park, 26170 State Highway 345, San Benito, Texas 78586, US, on March 16, 2026, at 11:00 am.

“She is now at peace in the arms of the Lord, and her memory will forever be a blessing.”