Nora Molina Cardenas

A resident of Weslaco, Texas, for over 80 years, she was born to Leopoldo Molina and Antonia Garcia on April 11, 1935. She was the youngest of three children, both of whom preceded her in death: Noemi Vela and Joe Overlin Molina.

Nora attended St. Joan of Arc Catholic School during elementary grades. In 1954, she graduated from Incarnate Word High School in San Antonio, where she played baritone in the band.

She married Joe I. Cardenas, Attorney, on February 14, 1958, at The Cortez Hotel in Weslaco (63 years). She is survived by husband and their children - Rick Cardenas, M.D., Celeste Cardenas, Ph.D., Sonja Turner (Richard); her grand-children - Ethan Leas (Sarah), Mikaela Cruz (Marco), Catharine Turner, Celeste Turner; and her great grandchildren - Matthew Leas and Rebecca Leas.

Nora was the “Best Mom Ever” who deeply loved her family with a selfless love. She evoked an all knowing “mom-ness” by making them her priority, often sacrificing so that they could pursue their dreams. She never wavered in her belief that all of them could live up to their aspirations; and in this way, she instilled perseverance and determination.

Besides the love of her family, she had a passion for art, tennis, and photography.

While she had a generous nature, she also had a sense of humor – sparking her friends to call her by the nickname “Pill.” Known for giving eccentric gifts, Nora genuinely cared for others, and this was most noticeable in her service to others when she volunteered her time to help local hospitals, charities, and schools.

The family of Nora Cardenas wishes to extend our sincere thanks to: Silverado Hospice, Belmont Village – PALS, Circle of Friends, and The Neighborhood for the specialized care they gave Nora.

Services will be held on Friday, July 9 at 11 am at Cook Walden / Forest Oaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park at 6300 W. William Cannon, Austin, Texas 78749.