Pauline Cantù Aguilar

Pauline Cantu Aguilar, lovingly known as Penny, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, in Houston, Texas, at the age of 82. Born on August 30, 1943, in Houston, she was the cherished daughter of Ysmeal Aguilar and Pauline Cantu y Señor Pablo Morlaes and was deeply rooted in the city she called home all her life.

Penny was a proud graduate of Jefferson Davis High School and went on to build a life defined by devotion to family, friendship, and community. She was a woman of warmth, strength, and grace, whose love extended far beyond her immediate family and touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Jesse Rojas, and her children: Rosalie Garcia, Patricia Sandoval (Joseph), David Monjaras III (Dana), Isabel Monjaras, and Anna Vera (Andrew). Penny’s greatest joy was her family, and her legacy lives on through her 19 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom she loved fiercely and unconditionally. She is also survived by her dear sister, Susie Fernandez (Tony), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pauline Cantu y Señor Pablo Morlaes and Ysmeal Aguilar; her sisters, Renee Hernandez and Roxanne Bailey; her brothers, Robert Aguilar, Johnny Aguilar, Richard Aguilar, and Raymond Ramos; and her precious great-grandchildren, Ariana and Devon Castleton, whom she now holds close once again.

Penny found joy and companionship through her involvement with The Red Hat Society and the West End Multi-Service Center, where she formed lasting friendships. She had a creative spirit and especially loved spending time doing arts and crafts, laughing, sharing stories, and making memories with those around her.

Above all, Penny will be remembered for her kind heart, her unwavering love for her family, and the warmth she brought into every room. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love a gift that will endure forever.