Anna Maria, lovingly known as “Nena”, was the heart of her family and a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, tia and friend. She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Dario M. Arellano; her children Juan, Manuel, and Rene; her siblings Salvador (Lucy) Santillan and Esther Ramirez, sister in law Antonia Santillan; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and several siblings.
Anna Maria was known for her deep love for her family, yet firm and spunky, her generous spirit, and her unwavering care for those around her. She raised her family with strength, always placing others before herself. Her home was filled with the delicious smells of her cooking, her handmade crafts and sewing projects, and the vibrant life of her plants and beloved pets.
If anyone ever needed anything, Tia Nena not only had it—she knew exactly where it was. She was the kind of person you could always count on, and her presence was a comfort to all who knew her.
She will be remembered for her frankness, unbelievable knowledge, her jokes, and the love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.
A visitation for Anna will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. A Rosary service will take place during the visitation from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The funeral service will occur on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, also at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home. A committal service will follow from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023.
