Herminia Mancha

With heavy hearts, we honor the life of Herminia Gonzalez Mancha, a devoted wife, mother, sister, teacher, and friend whose memory will live on through her family’s stories. Born on January 4, 1956 to Jesus and Rachel Gonzalez, Herminia was one of eight children in a home filled with love, laughter, and rich family traditions. Her siblings—Mary Ester Lopez, Mary Jessie (Nat) Cardenas, Geraldine Gonzalez, Rachel Gonzalez, Cecilia (Max) Salas, Richard (Roseann) Gonzalez, and Roland (Diana) Gonzalez—were her playmates, mentors, and confidants.

In 1977, Herminia married Henry Mancha, and together they shared a romance, friendship, and unbreakable bond that started in high school and lasted a lifetime. Their son, Thomas Francis (Kaitlyn) Mancha, brought immeasurable joy to motherhood, a role she embraced with gentle strength and boundless pride.

A distinguished graduate of St. Pius Catholic High School, Herminia pursued higher education with focus and determination, earning her Bachelor’s from the University of St. Thomas and a Master’s from the University of Houston. She began her career working in the lab at Herman Hospital, later finding her true calling as a high school biology teacher, principal, and administrator with Aldine ISD, which progressed into 37 devoted years of shaping young minds. Her students and colleagues have fond memories of her dignified and graceful composure and the passion, clear vision, and resolve she brought to supporting their well-being and academic achievements.

Outside the classroom, Herminia found enjoyment in the simple pleasures of reading, dancing, and listening to the music of her youth. Herminia’s hugs were warm, her spirit, unshakable. Inspired by her life of faith and friendship, those who knew Herminia knew they wanted to live with greater kindness and purpose.

Herminia is survived by her beloved mother, Rachel, and five cherished siblings. She now reunites in spirit with her father, Jesus Gonzalez, and sisters Mary Jessie Cardenas and Mary Ester Lopez.

Her extended family and close friends will fondly remember her precocious sense of humor and an unmatched gift for making everyone feel welcome and seen. She will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of loving her and cherished by those who will come after her.

"From where we stand the rain seems random. If we could stand somewhere else, we would see the order in it."

-- Tony Hillerman