Cecilia Peña Ross

Cecilia Ross, a loving wife, dedicated mother, esteemed nurse, and faithful Catholic, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023. She was born on July 21, 1953, in Monterrey, Mexico, to her parents Maria Luisa Bernal Peña and Jose G. Peña. Cecilia was raised in Harlingen, Texas, where she formed the foundation of her remarkable life. With deep sorrow, we bid farewell to a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many.

Cecilia's journey led her to Harlingen South High School, where she completed her high school education and graduated in 1971. Fueling her passion for caring for others, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Texas Women's University in Denton, Texas. With her degree in hand, she embarked on a lifelong career that would impact countless lives.

It was in Houston, Texas, where Cecilia met the love of her life, William Ross, with whom she shared 43 incredible years of marriage. They exchanged vows on September 01, 1979, and together they raised two children, Billy and Elizabeth. Cecilia's devotion to her family was unwavering, and she eagerly participated in every activity and school event that Billy and Elizabeth were involved in. Despite working night shifts as a hospital nurse, she made time to volunteer at their schools during the day. Her dedication was recognized multiple times as she was awarded the title of parent volunteer of the year.

Cecilia's deep faith in Catholicism was an integral part of her life. She devoted her time and energy to her church, actively participating in its activities and supporting the community. Cecilia taught Catholic Catechism classes and for 15 years, her and her husband served as the chairperson of the drink booth for the St. Theresa's Bazaar. For a decade, Cecilia participated in Perpetual Adoration, where she committed to attend adoration at the chapel on Mondays for one designated hour every week. Cecilia enjoyed enhancing her Catholic faith by attending ACTS (Adoration Community Theology Service) retreats, Catholic Conferences, and bible studies. She was passionate about leading by example in her faith, not only to her children but also to her seven godchildren.

Throughout her career, Cecilia exemplified a passion for nursing. She served at various institutions, including Texas Women's Hospital, West Houston Medical Center, and Houston Methodist Sugar Land. Her compassionate care and expertise earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and patients alike. Cecilia concluded her nursing journey as the beloved school nurse at Kempner High School, where her dedication and care extended beyond the hospital walls.

Cecilia enjoyed traveling, especially on cruises with her husband and family, and also enjoyed spending time in Galveston, Texas. During Cecilia’s time that she spent in Galveston, she enjoyed volunteering with the Galveston Grand Opera house. A more recent hobby Cecilia became fond of was taking Art Classes at the Sugar Land Senior Center where she painted several pieces of artwork. For more than 20 years, Cecilia has been a devoted Houston Astros Baseball fan and very much enjoyed watching the games.

In 2016, Cecilia was diagnosed with Lipoid Sarcoma and underwent several surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and trial research treatments throughout her seven-year journey. Cecilia displayed an immense amount of strength throughout her battle with cancer. She received support from family and friends and actively participated in support groups such as Houston Methodist Cancer Support Groups and the Live Strong Organization. In 2020, Cecilia was introduced to Gilda's Club in Louisville, Kentucky, where she found consistent support and strength through virtual participation in their activities, especially her Lunch Laughs group, who became lifelong friends to her and her family.

Cecilia is preceded in death by her father, Jose G. Peña; mother, Maria Luisa Bernal Peña; sister, Felicita Rodriguez; and sister, Juanita Peña. She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength for her surviving family, including her devoted husband, Bill Ross; her children: son, Billy Ross and his wife Molly Ross, daughter, Elizabeth Ross; her cherished grandson, Robert William Ross; and her sisters: Maria Candelaria Peña Rios, Maria Christina Peña Garcia, Janie Sauceda, Teresa P. Alegria, Patricia Peña Estrada, and Rosie Peña.

Cecilia Ross will forever be remembered as a compassionate nurse, a loving wife, a dedicated mother, and a devout follower of her faith. Her selflessness and kindness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. May her soul find eternal rest, and may her family and friends find solace in the memories they shared with her.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 21 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the chapel at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 South Kirkwood Road in Stafford, with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 5:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 22 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 705 St. Theresa Blvd. in Sugar Land.

The Rite of committal will follow via, funeral procession to Davis Greenlawn Cemetery in Rosenberg.

Immediately following, The Rite of Committal all are invited to gather with the family and share memories of Cecilia during a reception to be held at the community hall at St. Theresa Catholic Church 705 St. Theresa Blvd. in Sugar Land.

In lieu of flowers, Cecilia wishes for any monetary donations to be made in her honor to Gilda’s Club, 2440 Grinstead Dr., Louisville, KY 40204,https://gcl.gnosishosting.net/Portal/Donate/Donate_CeciliaRoss, an organization that has provided much support to her during her cancer journey.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with her family at www.earthmansouthwest.com.