Imelda Dolores Bartle

Imelda embraced the special legacy of WWII babies, born January 20, 1945 to Ninfa Salinas and Ruben Cuevas of Corpus Christi, Texas. As the eldest child of six, Imelda's journey was marked by a lifelong commitment to learning and creativity instilled by her parents during a unique era.

Imelda attended Sacred Heart Parochial School, Prescott Elementary and Cunningham Jr. High. She graduated from Mary Carroll High School in 1962 and pursued further education at Del Mar Jr. College, graduating in 1964. At the age of 21, she completed a Baccalaureate of Science at Texas Women's University, Class of 1966. Her passion for education led her to a rewarding career spanning four decades as an elementary school teacher in the DFW metroplex, primarily in Irving and Grand Prairie until her retirement in 2008. Imelda was recognized as "Woman of the Year" by the Quintessa Chapter of the American Business Women's Association in 1979 and was listed in "Who's Who Among American Teachers 2003-2004; 2004-2005” for her contributions to education.

A lifelong Catholic, Imelda recited the Rosary daily and lived her faith privately but deeply. Her artistic talents were beautifully expressed in works of watercolor and oil. She relished all genres of music, whether rock, salsa, country or ballet. Dancing brought her ultimate joy. She loved her dogs and tending flower gardens, a trait established by her mother. A fierce competitor in board games, trivia and puzzle solving, she also enjoyed antiquing and bargain hunting with her two daughters. She was a voracious reader known for her vast collection of books. She also crafted memories of her South Texas childhood and later, about the special bond and privilege of teaching her pupils over the years.

Imelda was preceded in death by her parents, Ruben and Ninfa Cuevas; her devoted daughter, Elizabeth Ann Sauls McCutchen; her beloved husband Cameron (Buck) Bartle and former husband Robert Terry Sauls.

Survivors include her loving daughter, Carmen Louise Sauls Huff and stepson TJ (Crystal) Bartle; grandchildren, Robert Paul Huff (Marisela), Bradly Neal Huff (Teresa), Kathryn Ann Huff (Travis), Caleb Glen McCutchen; five great-grandchildren, Amelia, Olivia, Ethan, Landry and Nolan; siblings Ruben Jr., David, Carmen, Carlos and Alfonso Cuevas; beloved aunts Mara Tovar and Aurora Cuevas, numerous cousins, and in-laws.

Imelda's legacy will be dedication to her family and friends, her unwavering faith, and the countless students she inspired throughout her long teaching career. Her longevity despite health issues was a testament to her independence, tenacity, intellectual curiosity and spirit. She was grateful for the love of family, who remained close despite long distances. She appreciated her friends throughout Texas, especially those at Ella Springs Senior Living, Houston and Paradise Springs Independent Community in Klein, Texas.

The family wish to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her dedicated medical personnel, most recently at Houston Methodist Network and DeBakey Heart Center.

Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home, 13102 North Freeway, Houston, Texas is assisting the family. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am, with recitation of the Rosary at 12:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1:00 pm. The Service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend. The family will hold a private burial the following week, where Imelda will be laid to eternal rest with her husband at Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery, Colleyville, Texas.