It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Rafaela Ellie Diaz—a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and friend—who passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 11th 2025, at the age of 61. Her kind heart and caring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Born on December 9, 1963, in Sabinas, Coahuila, Mexico, Ellie was the beloved daughter of Eida Salinas Diaz and Arturo Diaz Tijerina, and the cherished sister of four siblings. She is survived by her loving brothers: Arthur and his wife Mary, Esteban and his wife Linda, Esmerejildo, and Jaime and his wife Yanet. She also leaves behind her adored nieces and nephews: Christina and her husband Ricardo, Steven and his wife Paula, Daniela and her husband Jonathan, Miguel, Brookelynn, James, Alexandra, Daniel and his wife Heidi, Angelica and her husband Jake, Olivia and her husband Zachary, Adriana and her husband Eli, Cecilia, Andrew, Marcus and Julia; and her great-nephews and great-nieces, Esteban, Pablo, Desiree, Thomas, Jonas, Jaden, Aurora Ellie, Jasmine, Everlynn, Carter, and Ariella. Ellie was preceded in death by her mother, Eida Salinas Diaz, and her beloved children, John William Tinney and Elizabeth Marie Tinney.
Ellie grew up in San Angelo for most of her childhood as the big sister among her brothers, a role she took seriously. After high school Ellie worked at the Texas Theatre downtown where she provided many snacks and tickets to her brothers during that time. She later moved to Houston in 1999, where she began her work at the Texas Children’s Hospital where she met her lifelong friends, Delia Carbajal and Rose Toruno, whose bond began in Houston and endured through time and distance and ran the Houston Half Marathon. In 2009, she returned to San Angelo to be closer to her mother and care for her during her final years—a testament to Ellie’s unwavering devotion to her family. Ellie worked at Shannon Medical Center while in San Angelo until she became a full-time caregiver for her mother. Ellie continued her education as she proudly earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with a minor in Theology from Angelo State University in 2016 —a significant accomplishment that she hoped would inspire her nieces and nephews to believe that it's never too late to pursue their dreams. Ellie never stopped being a bright and shining presence for her family and friends as she always made a point to stay in contact with everyone near and far. Even after being diagnosed with cancer in 2023, Ellie would greet you with a smile and warmth as she fought with bravery and thanked God for each day. Ellie’s presence brought warmth, laughter, and grace into every room she entered. Her legacy of love and generosity will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She treasured time with her family and friends, enjoyed long conversations, discovering new restaurants, watching good movies, learning new cooking recipes, dancing, running more marathons, and traveling all over the world.
Those who knew Ellie remember her as a woman of deep compassion, unshakable faith, and strong moral values. She was not only a loyal friend but also a source of strength, love, and encouragement to everyone around her. Her kindness left a lasting impact on many lives, and her relationship with the Lord was a cornerstone of her character that will continue to stand with her family. We are deeply thankful to have witnessed the love and support our dear sister received during her brave battle with cancer. We are profoundly grateful for her beloved cousin, Maria Garza, who stood by her side with unconditional love, patience, and care, offering comfort and strength in her final stage of life. She was also uplifted by the unwavering presence of her two lifelong friends Delia Carbajal and Rose Toruno—companions of 25 years. Their friendship never wavered, remaining constant even when miles apart.
The viewing will be held at Johnson’s Funeral Home on Monday, June 16th, 2025 at 6-8 pm where family and friends are invited to celebrate Ellie’s life and share treasured memories. The funeral service will be held at Johnson’s Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 17th, 2025 at 10 am and Ellie will be laid to rest at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.
