It is with great sadness and deepest sorrow that we announce the loss of our most beloved wife and mother Raquel Lourdes De Anda, who went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 16, 2021. Raquel would have celebrated her 81st birthday on May 16, 2021 and 63rd wedding anniversary on May 17, 2021. Raquel had a deep devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and Our Most Beloved Mother Mary. Raquel loved her husband and family with all her heart. Raquel had a wonderful life traveling in Europe and living in Germany; finally settling back home in El Paso. Raquel faced many challenges and always faced them with grace and strength focusing on the blessings of God, setting the example for all who loved her.
Raquel grew up in El Paso and graduated from Ysleta High School. Raquel was a member of in the Yselta drum corp. Raquel enjoyed dancing folklorico with her sister Gloria. Raquel was devoted and involved with the Catholic Church. While living in Germany she was an officer with the Catholic Officer Women’s Club. Raquel was the past President of St. Patrick’s Altar Society, a member of both St. Patrick and St. Luke’s Choir, a Bible study facilitator, and lector. Raquel taught Catholic formation classes and was involved with the Catholic Youth Organization. Raquel’s greatest joy besides her loving husband was her children.
Raquel will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor and beautiful smile. Raquel could debate with the best of them especially when defending her faith and values. Raquel was the life of the party, she loved dancing and singing and would break out in song at any moment. Raquel enjoyed gardening putting much joy and pride into her yard. Raquel enjoyed traveling and meeting new people, learning languages, she spoke three languages fluently. Raquel would decorate cakes for any celebration, making and decorating her children’s wedding cakes. Raquel enjoyed sewing and made her daughter’s beautiful wedding dress and veil.
Raquel is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Abelardo De Anda; daughter Cynthia Reza; son David De Anda Sr. and wife Maria; son Dr. Abelardo De Anda Jr. and wife Karen; son Dr. Mark De Anda and wife Kenia; and son James De Anda and wife Carina. Seven grandchildren survive Raquel: Amanda Navarro, Melina De Anda, David De Anda Jr, Michael De Anda, Marlisa De Anda, Coleman De Anda, and Jennifer De Anda. Eleven great-grandchildren: Aidan Navarro, Isabella Navarro, Jade Navarro, Cohen Sarty, Dahlia Sarty, Elora De Anda, Cera De Anda, Abigail De Anda, Arion De Anda, and Reigan De Anda.
Raquel is preceded in death by her parents Simon and Carmen Velarde; brothers Carlos Velarde; Hugo Velarde; twins Albert and Robert Velarde; and Tony Velarde; sister Anna Santoscoy; Great-granddaughter Jaelyn De Anda. Her sister Gloria Fernandez and numerous nieces and nephews survive Raquel.
