Elida Magdalena Navarro

Elida was born to Mary Magdelena Mendoza Guajardo who was aided in raising Elida by her step-father, Petronilo Guajardo, on the 20th of June, 1937, in San Benito, Texas. Preceded in death by her loving brothers, Mike and Isaac Mendoza, along with her young sister, Elisa Mendoza. Elida was raised in Houston, Texas, where she ultimately graduated from Jefferson Davis High School in 1957, where she was an active member of the glee club.

A rebel for her time, Elida’s second marriage to Jesus (Jessie) Navarro survived until his death on the 3rd of March, 1995. Elida leaves behind her daughter, Cynthia Navarro, her son, John Michael Guajardo, Sr., his spouse, Patricia G. Guajardo, their four children - Christina, Carlos, Diego, John Michael, his wife, Nancy, and her great-grandchildren, Raziel, John Anthony, and Nicolás. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Most importantly, her dog, Candy, awaits a reunion with her and specially purchased McDonald’s Happy Meals.

During her time, Elida attended Blinn College Durham where she graduated to become a beautician. After also serving the University of Texas at MD Anderson Cancer Center for twenty-seven years, Elida retired; but she returned as a volunteer to brush and style the wigs of cancer patients. Her service only continued with the births of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren where she jovially wore her “uniform” which consisted of an appropriately tailored dress, work shoes, manicured nails, and coiffed hair.

Known for her sense of style, Elida was a seamstress whose attire conveyed to the world that she was quite the lady as she donned her red lipstick and perky eyelashes. In addition to her fashion sense, Elida kept a house in which she welcomed everyone. In fact, she fostered many children and adults. To this day, many visit Elida’s house as a result of her hospitality. Her philosophy was one in which she willingly gave her last dollar.

On this day, we ask that you celebrate the life and livelihood of our mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, mother-in-law, niece, and whatever hat (or cape) she felt someone needed. Her spirit continues to live on through our stories of and about her. Please continue to share in her enthusiasm for life, fashion, hospitality, advocacy, and tireless devotion to work. Lastly, we ask that you offer one last cup of coffee for her.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.