Elia Garza

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Maria Elia Garza, a beloved daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother. She peacefully departed from this life on January 17, 2025, at the age of 89—just one month shy of her 90th birthday. Elia was born on February 14, 1935, in Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. At 18, she immigrated to Houston, Texas, to live with her aunt, unaware that this move would profoundly change her life and lead her to a future filled with love, joy, and family.

In Houston, Elia met the love of her life, Jesus Montemayor Garza Sr., who lived just behind her aunt's house. Their connection was instant; after a beautiful courtship, they married when she was 24. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and family, raising five wonderful children who became her pride and joy.

Although Elia started her journey by attending Incarnate Word High School, she soon joined the workforce to improve her life and support her family in Mexico. Her passion for family and home drove her to make the selfless decision to become a stay-at-home mom, dedicating herself to raising her children with unwavering devotion. Her house was always filled with laughter, warmth, and a deep sense of nurturing love that will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

Despite leading a happy and fulfilling life, Elia's legacy continues through her children, who will carry on the love and lessons she imparted. All who knew her will profoundly miss her strength, grace, and unconditional love.

Elia is survived by her beloved daughters Guadalupe Fernandez, Maria Verduzco, San Juanita Martinez, and sons Jesus M. Garza Jr. and Jaime Garza. She is also survived by her sons-in-law Gerardo Fernandez, Jose Luis Verduzco, and Julian Martinez, as well as her daughters-in-law Claudia Garza and Maria Enriqueta Garza.

Elia leaves behind 19 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter, Mialani A. Guzman. Mialani is the granddaughter of her first and eldest grandson, Miguel Angel Fernandez, who was waiting to embrace her upon her arrival in heaven.

Her life will be celebrated at Forest Park East Funeral Home & Cemetery on Feb 14, 2025, with visitation starting at 4:00 pm.

Elia will always be remembered as a woman of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. Although she is no longer with us, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her.