Juanita Starr Sierra

Born and raised in Ysleta, Texas, Jeannie was the youngest and only daughter in her family. A proud graduate of Ysleta High School, she pursued higher education with determination, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and an MBA from the University of Texas at El Paso, both with honors. With her husband Rafael, she built a successful insurance business, Liberty Starr Insurance.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jeannie was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was tough, determined, and fiercely competitive, always striving for excellence in everything she pursued. A devoted and loving mother, she cared for her son, Antonio "Tonito" Meraz Jr., with unwavering dedication. She also took great care of her mother, Indalecia "Daisy" Marquez-Starr, up until her passing, ensuring she was surrounded by love and comfort.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Antonio "Tonito" Meraz Jr., her parents, William B. Starr and Indalecia "Daisy" Marquez-Starr; her brothers, Carlos Marquez Sr., David Marquez, and Ricardo Marquez, DDS; and her nephews, Ben Antonio Marquez and Cesar "Cheezer" Marquez.

Jeannie is survived by her loving husband, Rafael Pena, and her brother, Jose Antonio Marquez, DDS, Ph.D. (Maria). She also leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews, including Andrea Marquez Rudowicz (Mark), Jose Antonio Marquez Jr., Carlos Marquez Jr., Israel Marquez (Betty), Margarita Marquez, Yessika Marquez Zarazua (Victor), Cristal Marquez (Melanie), Claudia Aguilera Trevizo (Rudy), Corina Marquez Burns, John David Marquez, Ph.D. (Ida), Dan Ricardo Marquez, the Honorable Marisa Marquez Martinez (Frank), and Mirasol Marquez Ruiz (Carlos), along with their families, who will forever hold her memory dear.

As we say goodbye to a remarkable woman, we honor her legacy of strength, resilience, and dedication to family. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit lives on in the lives she touched and the love she shared.