San Juana Rios

San Juana Mesa Rios entered into the loving arms of Our Lord on October 16, 2026 at the tender age of 92. She was born in Falls City, Texas on November 27, 1933 to parents, Maria Dolores Campos and Cresencio Mesa. San Juana was a woman whose heart was always with her family. She lived a life defined by humility, hard work, and a love that never asked for anything in return.

A loving mother and grandmother, San Juana always found a way to make sure her children and grandchildren had what they needed. She showed her love was through the care she gave her family. She understood that providing was not always about having plenty; sometimes, it meant making the most of what you had and finding a way to stretch it just a little further. She made sure her children and grandchildren had the things they needed, especially when it came to school supplies and being prepared for school. These gestures may have seemed simple to others, but they were a reflection of her determination and the sacrifices she was willing to make for the people she loved. Her family could count on her, and she took great pride in looking after them.

San Juana was also a wonderful cook, and her kitchen was a place where love could be tasted in every bite. She was known for her delicious homemade tortillas, tamales, carne guisada and potato and egg, dishes that brought comfort and happiness to those lucky enough to enjoy them. There was something special about the way San Juana cooked, and the meals she prepared will forever be tied to memories of family, togetherness, and home.

When she wasn't busy caring for her loved ones, San Juana enjoyed the simple pleasures that made her happy. She loved playing lotería, sharing in the fun and excitement of the game. She also loved her coffee, a familiar comfort that could bring a little moment of peace to her day. San Juana had a remarkable green thumb and a deep love for plants and flowers of every kind. She delighted in tending to her plants and watching them grow, finding beauty in each bloom and each new leaf. Her garden was another place where her caring nature shone through. Just as she nurtured her plants with patience and attention, she nurtured her family with the same steady devotion, always giving of herself so those she loved could flourish.

Above all, San Juana will be remembered for her humble spirit and her generous heart. She did not need grand gestures or material things to show her love. She showed it through a warm meal, through making sure her grandchildren had what they needed for school, through the sacrifices she made quietly, and through the countless ways she put her family first. Her love was not measured by what she had, but by how much she gave.

San Juana will be reunited in heaven with her parents, Maria Dolores Campos, and Cresencio Mesa; son, Juan Ramon Valdez; son-in-law, Justo Moreno; sister, Dominga Paredes; and brothers, Natividad Leal and Raul Mesa.

Her memory will forever live in her children, Teresa Moreno, and Jessie Rios; grandchildren, Tina, Jessie (Elizabeth Ayala), San Juana, Mario (Dori Sanchez), Victoria, Joseph, Jesus, Maricela; great-grandchildren, Emma, Miranda, Adilynn, Catalina, Amethyst, Jessie, Joe Aiden, Angel, and Daisy. Sister, Maria Rodriguez and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Her legacy will continue in all her teachings and the love she gave so freely. That love will remain with them always.