Adela Semon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and accomplished lyric soprano, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 years on Sunday, June 21, 2026, after a life dedicated to family and music.
Adela was one of nine children born to parents Federico and Maria Rodriguez. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert H. Semon; step-son, Robert Semon; grandson, Paul Semon; sisters, Gloria Crohn, Alma Kearns, and Yolanda Ingle; and two brothers, Charles Rodriguez and Fred Rodriguez.
She is survived by her sons, Walter (Laura) Semon, Bernard (Letty) Semon, and Edward Semon; daughter-in-law, Michon Semon; grandchildren, Philip (Elise) Semon, Karisa (Shawn) Semon, and Lili (Gabriel) Cosma, and Ann Semon; and two great-grandchildren. She remained close to her surviving siblings—sister, Frances Hughes, and brothers, Raoul Rodriguez and Rodolfo Rodriguez. Adela also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and other relatives, as well as life-long friends.
Born in El Paso, TX in 1930, Adela discovered her love of music at an early age. Encouraged by her mother and teachers who recognized her extraordinary talent, she began performing publicly as a child. Adela was a graduate of Ysleta High School and attended Texas Western College, studying music. During her high school years, she excelled in both violin and vocal performances. Her passion for singing led her to pursue opera in college, where she frequently earned leading roles.
In May 1949, Adela married Robert Semon. Together with her husband, Adela founded the El Paso School of Music in 1959, teaching hundreds of students voice, piano, accordion, and violin over more than six decades. Their three sons have continued the legacy of their parents’ passion for music, both locally and internationally by educating, performing, and supporting this artistic discipline.
Adela lived and studied in Vienna and Germany under distinguished vocal instructors, performing locally and across the United States, Europe, and Mexico. A lifelong performer, Adela sang lead roles in operas, including La Traviata, Aida, and Tosca, among many others, as well as in various concerts, recitals, and productions. Her exceptional “bel canto” voice earned great praise and recognition from audiences and critics alike.
Above all, Adela cherished her family, which remained the center of her life. Those who knew Adela admired her not only for her extraordinary voice but also her warmth, resilience, and positive spirit. She loved deeply, gave generously of herself, and devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family and friends.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a celebration of life at 6:00 p.m at Funeraria Del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave, El Paso, Texas 79903. Funeral Mass will be Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 10970 Bywood Dr, El Paso, Texas 79936 and will be presided by Fr. Ken Ducre. Interment to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park and Cemetery, 4848 Alps, El Paso, Texas 79904.
Memorial contributions may be made to The El Paso Opera Co.
