Nina Saenz Espinosa

Nina Saenz Espinosa, 85, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away on August 18, 2026. She went to be with the Lord peacefully in the company of loving family. Born in Corpus Christi on December 28, 1940, Nina carried through life a steady devotion to learning, faith, and service—gifts she shared generously with others.

Nina graduated from The University of Texas Pan American in Edinburg, earning a Bachelor of Science in Health Education. Her commitment to excellence in study was recognized when she was placed on the National Dean’s List, an early reflection of the disciplined curiosity and lifelong pursuit of understanding that remained a hallmark of her life.

Prior to retiring, Nina was employed with the University of Texas Medical School at Houston (Neurology), overseeing the “Kids Defeating Stroke” (KIDS) program. Through KIDS, she helped educate middle school students and families about stroke awareness and when to call 911, with the program implemented in partnership with the Corpus Christi Independent School District. Her work reflected a deep sense of responsibility to others and a belief that knowledge, shared clearly and compassionately, can protect and strengthen a community.

On May 5, 1963, Nina married Richard R. Espinosa at Kelsey Memorial United Methodist Church in Corpus Christi, Texas. In the life they built together, Nina’s steady presence, thoughtful counsel, and enduring faith shaped the home and the hearts within it.

Nina’s interests were as vibrant as they were meaningful. She had a passion for Bible teaching and remained a devoted student of the Bible throughout her life—one who not only studied but also encouraged others through prayer and conversation. She also found joy in interior decorating and fashion and expressed her creativity through jewelry design. Music was another cherished part of her life: she played both the piano and guitar, she loved to sing, and she also had a prodigious talent for oil painting.

Nina was active in the Rotary Club of Southside Corpus Christi and the Spanish American Genealogical Association (S.A.G.A). She assisted with the implementation of the “Early Act First Knight” (EAFK) program in Corpus Christi, sponsored locally by the Rotary Club of Southside Corpus Christi. EAFK provided a daily character education and ethics curriculum at Rose Shaw Elementary School, teaching students high moral character, civility, and service-oriented leadership during their formative years—values Nina held in high regard and supported with conviction.

Her voice also reached beyond the rooms where she taught and served. Nina wrote articles in the Caller Times, including one promoting “Women in the Rotary,” reflecting her belief in participation, leadership, and the strength of community when everyone is welcomed to contribute. Above all, Nina treasured opportunities to share what she had learned—introducing people to Christ, teaching the Bible, and living as a faithful prayer warrior whose encouragement was grounded in sincere devotion.

Nina was preceded in death by her father, Seferino Saenz; her mother, Leonor Saenz; her sister, Sofia Saenz; her brother, Joel Saenz (Louisa); her brother, David Saenz (Yolanda), and sister, Isabel Saenz (Julio Vasquez). She is survived by her husband, Richard R. Espinosa; her son, Richard Andre Espinosa; her daughter, Gracelyn Espinosa Mireles (Daniel); her son, Charles Espinosa (Olga); and her grandchildren: Cristian-Jovan, Jeremy, Jonah, Jake and Jill, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hospice Nurses Linda Martinez and Bethany Martinez (Christus Hospice and Palliative Care, Spohn) for their professional, kind, caring guidance and support.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel, 4901 Everhart Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411, on August 27, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will also be held at Funeraria Del Angel on August 27, 2026, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.