Eladia C. (Laya) Casarez, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the age of 98. She was surrounded by the love of her family in her final moments, just as she was throughout her life.
Laya was born in McNeil, Texas, and later the family moved to Austin, where she attended school and church at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. In 1953 she married her love, Gene, and they began their family. Laya dedicated her life to caregiving, first for her children and later her grandchildren. Her home with Gene was in South Austin for 51 years and served as a center for the family. She welcomed family and friends into her home for talks around the table with cafecito, celebrations, and countless hours cooking and baking.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene (Gene) Casarez, her four brothers, one sister, and her parents, Victor and Marcelina Cermeno.
She is survived by her five children, Margaret Cano, Joe Casarez, Maria Socorro (Coco) Casarez (Steve), Mary Frances (Kika) Garza, Martin Casarez and wife, Laurie Casarez. She was blessed with five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
We would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice for the great support through this time.
