Virginia Aranza

Virginia Aranza, age 75, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026. She was born on November 6, 1950, in Houston, Texas, and grew up in the East End. She was the beloved daughter of Modesta Garza and Frank Aranza Sr.

Virginia was a proud graduate of Austin High School. From a young age, she displayed the fierce independence and determination that would define her life. Despite living with a disability, she was determined to create her own path and, as a young woman, journeyed to California on her own. The road was not easy, and there were seasons of uncertainty and hardship, but she endured through resilience and courage. Those experiences did not harden her — they strengthened her. They shaped her into the fearless, faith-filled woman who would anchor her family with unwavering love and determination.

She dedicated her professional life to helping others as a Job Search Specialist, guiding individuals toward new opportunities and brighter futures. Through patience, encouragement, and a steadfast belief in the potential of others, she empowered countless people to overcome obstacles and find not just employment, but renewed purpose and direction.

Her devotion to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the cornerstone of her life. She was a faithful and committed member, drawing strength from her testimony of Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior. Her faith sustained her through life’s greatest trials and was the source of the strength for which she was so well known.

Virginia was preceded in death by her mother, Modesta Garza; her father, Frank Aranza Sr.; her brother, Frank Aranza Jr.; and her daughter, Dawn Aranza.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her son, Aaron Aranza (Angelica Aranza), and her daughter, Ashley Ramirez (Martin Ramirez). She was a proud and loving grandmother to Richard Marler (Samantha Lehmann), Zachary Marler, Christopher Alonso (Ashley Sowell), Erin Aranza, Mariah Ramirez, Jasmine Gaona, Arturo Gaona, Ismael Gaona, Lazaro Gaona, and Amelia Gaona; and a treasured great-grandmother to Brookelynn Meilicke, Arianna Sowell, Avery Alonso, Cali Alonso, Ismani Gaona, Alec Gaona, and Mateo Gaona. She is also survived by her siblings, Linda Parker, Naomi Rowley, Jacob Aranza, and Esther Ramirez.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who provided medical care, support, and dedication throughout her many health challenges. They especially wish to thank Cindy Valdez for the exceptional compassion, devoted care, and steadfast companionship she provided in Virginia’s final months, surrounding her with love during her most fragile moments.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale St., Houston, TX 77023, on March 7, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m., with departure at 1:30 p.m. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Burial will take place at 3:00 p.m. at Forest Park Lawndale, followed by a celebration of life at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider honoring Virginia’s life by gifting a plant or planting a tree in her memory — a living tribute reflecting the resilience, faith, and growth she demonstrated throughout her life. Memorial donations may also be made to DePelchin Children’s Center in honor of her continued spirit of service.