Emma Sanchez Gonzalez

Emma Gonzalez was born on March 3, 1932, in Orange, Texas, and grew up in Sinton where she learned about family, hard work, and religion. Emma's strength of character, resourcefulness and creativity helped her overcome life's long odds. Her family worked as migrants before settling in Pontiac, Michigan, as automobile workers.

Emma, a single mother, had her first child in 1950 and her last in 1968. In 1965, Emma moved back to Texas with her four youngest children. A homemaker, seamstress and furniture upholsterer, Emma worked at Pasadena Bayshore Medical Center for 33 years. She became a grandmother in 1991. After retirement she enjoyed travel to Mexico, New Orleans, Biloxi, Florida, Michigan, and back to Houston. All her life Emma enjoyed Latin rhythm music and dancing.

She is survived by her sons Juan Bustillos, Enrique Bustillos (Dawn), Alejandro Bustillos, and Jaime Gonzalez (Jolene) and daughters Dolores Tracy (David), Josefina Powers (Louis), and Emangelina Reese (Marty), grandchildren Jonathan Hearon, Michelle Tracy, Steven Hearon, Cody Powers, Joshua Gonzalez, Seth Gonzalez, Brandy Hearon, and Brooke Dagnan; and great-grandchildren Natalie Tatro, Jaina Tatro, and Adi Dutta. And great niece, Stacey Hearon.

Last month Emma suffered from an infection in her heart valve, and the medications damaged her kidneys, requiring dialysis. In the end, all seven of her children loved her for her sweet nature and her happy and loving heart. Emma wasn't able to provide her children with monetary riches, but did give the greatest gift she could which was love. Emma was strong in her faith and prayed daily.