Sylvia Betancourt Alanis

Born on February 7, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas, Sylvia was the daughter of Wenceslao and Rosa Betancourt, whose families hailed from San Luis Potosí and Zacatecas, Mexico. Her parents instilled in her a deep pride in her heritage and a lifelong commitment to helping nuestra gente—especially those in greatest need.

After graduating from Fox Tech High School, Sylvia pursued her nursing studies at the Baptist School of Nursing and Trinity University. As one of only a few Mexican Americans in her class, she went on to earn her Nursing Degree and Registered Nurse designation. While eager to begin her career, life’s calling soon shifted when love unexpectedly crossed her path.

Sylvia often like to share that she “found love in the operating room” the day she locked eyes with Dr. Artemio Alanis while assisting him in surgery. Artemio, a widower with five young children, married Sylvia soon after, and together they welcomed five more—earning the affectionate nickname “the Mexican Brady Bunch,” with five boys and five girls in all. With the loving support of her parents and extended family, Sylvia and Artemio raised their large family, filling their days with adventures and unconditional love.

Known for her vibrant spirit, Sylvia’s fashion flair was unmistakable—whether it was her bold, eclectic eyewear reminiscent of Elton John, or her impeccable makeup skills rivaling those of Alexis from Dynasty. She had a gift for accessorizing with bright colors, animal prints, and one-of-a-kind statement pieces, making even a trip to the grocery store a style occasion.

She was an eccentric, fiery, and glamorous mother to ten children, and her love was bringing the family together to celebrate and honor their Mexican heritage. Sylvia carried her signature spirit into grandmotherhood—preferring her 17 grandchildren call her “Sylvia” or “Ita” rather than “Grandma”—always radiating movie-star energy. She welcomed each new family addition with open arms, treasuring her role as great-grandmother to eleven beautiful great-grandchildren.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband of nearly forty years, Dr. Artemio Alanis; her second husband of ten years, Armando Perez; her parents, Rosa and Wenceslao; her daughter, Elizabeth Alanis, RN; and her son, Dr. David Alanis. Her eight loving children survive her: Ricky Alanis, Diana Reddi, Dr. Artemio Alanis Jr., Leticia Sanchez, Magdalena Gaona, Carlos Alanis, Marco Antonio Alanis, R.N, and Sylvia Rosa Alanis. Her sons-in-law Dr. Raul E. Gaona, Jr., Ravinder Reddi, Jay Sanchez, and her daughters-in-law Debbie Alanis & Susan Alanis.

She is also survived by her beloved sister, Eudelia “Judy” Flores, brother-in-law Thomas Flores, and their children Janina and Armando Flores.

We are especially grateful to our brother Marco, whose extraordinary devotion, patience, and love sustained our mother through her later years. During her many health challenges, he was her steady anchor—caring for her with compassion, dignity, and tireless dedication. His generosity of spirit brought her comfort, joy, and the peace of knowing she was never alone. As well as her loving and supportive caregivers, Miriam and Rosie, they took such good care of her.

Services will be held Monday, August 18, 2025, at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 223 E. Summit Ave., with visitation from 10:00–10:30 a.m., Rosary from 10:30–11:00 a.m., Funeral Mass from 11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m., immediately followed by a procession to San Fernando II Cemetery with the graveside service beginning at 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Sylvia’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org, supporting research and care for those affected by the disease.