Elvina Margarita Garza

Raised in Houston, she remained rooted there throughout her life, living in the Aldine area and treasuring the familiarity of the place she called home.

Known to many as “Vina” Garza, she carried herself with a rare blend of strength and sincerity—steadfastly independent, plainly honest, and deeply thoughtful in the ways that mattered most. She could be the life of the party when the moment called for it, quick with humor and a spirited, “spicy” spark that made ordinary conversations memorable. Yet she also valued quiet, contented time at home—especially in the house where she lived throughout her married life and for the 23 years after her husband’s passing—holding close the memories she so generously shared with anyone willing to listen.

As a young mother, Vina worked hard at General Electric and Curlee Manufacturing, meeting life with determination and resolve. She later retired early, choosing to devote herself to caring for those she loved—first her mother and father, and then her husband—giving her time and energy with the kind of devotion that needs no fanfare to be profound.

On May 14, 1966, Vina married the love of her life, Domingo Garza Jr., who was immediately shipped off to the Vietnam war. Together they built a family that became the center of her world. Their children were Anna (born 1968), Cindy (born 1972), and Ernie (born 1975). Her love for them was constant—cherished, steady, and unmistakable in every moment they shared.

Vina found happiness in the simple pleasures that filled her days with warmth and connection. She loved spending time at the neighborhood senior center, talking on the phone with her many friends, and settling in for her evening telenovelas—following Wheel of Fortune. She also delighted in cooking, especially trying recipes she saved from TikTok, bringing her curiosity and good taste to the table in ways that made others feel cared for.

Vina is preceded in death by her husband, Domingo Garza Jr.; her daughter, Anna Garza; her parents, Gregorio and Margarita Chapa; her brother Gregory Chapa; and her sisters Gloria Miranda and Aurora Martin. Though she deeply missed them, she carried their memory in her heart throughout her life.

Vina is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Cindy; her son, Ernie; her daughter-in-law, Amanda; and her cherished grandchildren who she adored, Mark Anthony, Matthew Rene, Nicolas Adrian (wife: Alessandra), William Andrew, and Victoria Rose (husband: Matthew). She took immense pride in her family and treasured every moment spent with them.

Visitation will be held at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038, on July 6, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will take place at American Heritage Funeral Home on July 7, 2026, from 11:45 am to 12:45 pm. A Committal Service will follow at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, on July 7, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.

Pallbearers will be Matthew Flores, Nicolas Garza, William Johnson, Matthew Gobert, Roland Chapa, and Rudy Chapa, with Mark Flores serving as an honorary pallbearer.

The family would like to thank all who have sent messages of condolences and an even bigger thank you to those who have supported them by bringing meals and visiting. Your presence has meant so much to us. You are in our hearts!

Loved beyond words, missed beyond measure, and remembered forever.