Evelyn Ledesma Galán

Evelyn “Evy” Ledesma Galán was a fiery light to all who knew her for 66 beautiful years. She passed away at her home in Austin, Texas, on Friday, February 6th, 2026. Born November 28th, 1959, in Harlingen, Texas, Evy was a unique and transcendent creative force with a fiercely loving spirit.

Evy attended Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. Her life and work uplifted and unified communities around her. She was the bold architect behind CINESOL Latino Film Festival, pioneering the first film festival in the Rio Grande Valley and fostering a sanctuary where her own genius and the talents of others could flourish. An acclaimed scholar, she continued to enlighten others through her prolific contributions in documentary filmmaking and was a champion for Latino Arts and Culture. Her generosity of heart and spirit enlivened and enriched the lives of all who were graced to know her. She found joy in helping and encouraging others and was a lover of people– Evy never met a stranger.

Evy was loved deeply by her family and friends. She is survived by her husband Hector Galán, her children Marisa, Rigoberto, and Rémy, and her grandchildren, Samuel, Theodore, and Roman. She was predeceased by her mother and father, Margarito and Dorita Ledesma, and her sister, Betty Diaz.

Evy’s vibrance and brilliance sparked inspiration in the lives she touched. Her altruistic nature, spiritual devotion, and unwavering virtue were beacons of goodness, and her laughter and joy for life were contagious. Her memory and legacy will continue to shine a guiding light and live on in the hearts of those who loved her.