Maria Guadalupe Cervantez

September 16, 1942 – June 25, 2025

Austin, Texas

Heaven gained one of its most beautiful angels as Maria Guadalupe Cervantez was called home on June 25, 2025. With her passing, we lost the heart of our family, a woman whose strength, compassion, and grace shaped generations and left an indelible mark on all who knew her. On that day, she was reunited in eternal peace with her beloved husband, her cherished parents, and many loved ones who went before her.

Born on September 16, 1942, in La Feria, Texas, to Juan Vasquez and Soledad Limas, Maria’s early life was marked by challenge, responsibility, and resilience. She spent her childhood years in Mexico, and at the age of 12, she returned to the United States to live in the care of a beloved aunt and uncle, helping to raise their children. Even then, the seeds of her lifelong devotion to family and service were already taking root.

Maria married Federico Cervantez and together they raised seven children in the communities of Lubbock and Weslaco, Texas. Following his passing, she later married Jose Mireles, and with him welcomed two more children, continuing to build the large, loving family that would become her life’s greatest joy.

She is survived by the nine children who carry her spirit forward: Federico (Deborah) Cervantez, Jose Antonio (Sabrina) Cervantez, Juan Carlos Cervantez, Alicia (Mike) Kredt, Maria Isabel (Kenneth) Jowers, Rebecca Sarah Cervantez, Maricela (James) Harris, Raquel (Andy) Rendon, and Jessica (Francisco) Sanchez. Her legacy lives on through 21 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, each of whom was deeply loved and uniquely shaped by her influence.

Maria is also survived by her beloved siblings: Jose Dolores Vasquez, Juan (Lola) Vasquez, Ludivina Rodriguez, Jaime Vasquez, Sigifredo (Maria) Vasquez, Rigoberto (Dina) Vasquez, Rubiselda (Pablo) Vasquez.

Though her formal education was minimal, Maria’s sheer perseverance, and fierce determination propelled her far. Her strength of spirit was boundless. With grit, faith, and unmatched strength of will, she built a life of dignity and purpose—not only for herself, but for all of us. She started her own alterations business from the ground up and, through long hours, meticulous work, and steadfast commitment, ran it successfully for 33 years. Every stitch she sewed was not just fabric and thread—it was a symbol of the life she was weaving for her children and grandchildren, one of stability, integrity, and pride.

Maria never asked for recognition, yet her actions spoke volumes. She gave her everything, her time, her energy, her wisdom—without ever expecting anything in return. Her sacrifices were many and her love was infinite. Her hands were always busy, her heart always full, and her door always open. She welcomed all with warmth, laughter, and the best home-cooked meals, turning even the simplest gathering into a cherished memory.

Maria was our foundation. Her life was a testament to resilience, faith, and the boundless power of a mother’s love. We are who we are because of her, and we will carry her legacy with reverence and gratitude for the rest of our lives.

She leaves behind a family forever shaped by her courage, inspired by her work ethic, and wrapped in the love she so freely gave. To us, she was not just our mom, our grandma— she was our Maria. A woman of immeasurable strength, deep faith, and unwavering love.

We were the fortunate ones to walk through life with her. Her legacy is etched into who we are, and it will carry us forward in all we do.

Rest in eternal peace, Mom/Grandma/Maria. You will forever be our guiding light.

A graveside services at water's edge for Maria will be held Monday, July 7, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Ih-35, Pflugerville, TX 78660.