Yolanda Pena

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Yolanda, a remarkable woman whose life was defined by service, strength, loyalty, and unconditional love. She touched the lives of countless people with her generous heart, infectious sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Born in New York, Yolanda moved to Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, at a very young age, where she was raised and made many cherished childhood memories. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Hilda, her father, Felix, and her brother, Junior.

Yolanda proudly served her country in the United States Army for 20 years, retiring with the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her distinguished military career, she received numerous awards and commendations for her dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others. After retiring from the Army, she continued her career in the insurance industry as an accounting clerk.

Although Yolanda never married and had no biological children, she lovingly considered the soldiers she led and mentored throughout her military career to be her children. She took great pride in guiding, encouraging, and caring for them, and many remained close to her long after their military service ended.

Outside of work, Yolanda found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time at home with friends, tending to her yard, watching and cheering on the Houston Astros, and attending as many games as she could. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing softball, tennis, and many other sports, carrying that competitive spirit and love of teamwork throughout her life.

Yolanda’s heart belonged to animals. She was an avid animal lover who never met a dog she didn’t adore. Friends always knew their pets were welcome in her home and would be cared for as if they were her own. Her beloved dogs, Baxter and Atlas, were her faithful companions, bringing her endless joy and standing faithfully by her side each day. They will miss her deeply.

One of the greatest blessings in Yolanda’s life was the special bond she shared with her best friend and roommate, Cindy Lopez. Together they shared a home, countless adventures, endless laughter, and an unbreakable friendship built on love, trust, and unwavering support. Through every season of life, Cindy was by her side, and their bond was a beautiful reminder that family is not always defined by blood, but by the love we choose to share.

While Yolanda’s family by blood was small, the family she created through friendship was immeasurable. She was surrounded by an extraordinary circle of friends who became brothers, sisters, children, and lifelong companions. She opened her home, her heart, and her life to so many people, offering love, guidance, encouragement, and laughter whenever it was needed. To know Yolanda was to become part of her family. The friendships she nurtured over the years became her greatest treasure, and the love she shared will continue to live on in each of them.

Yolanda will be remembered for her selfless service, fierce loyalty, compassionate heart, and ability to make everyone feel welcome and loved. Her legacy is one of kindness, friendship, and unwavering devotion to the people and animals she cared for so deeply. Though she will be profoundly missed, the countless memories she created and the lives she touched will forever keep her spirit alive.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Yolanda’s honor to Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), 17555 Katy Freeway, Building C, Houston, Texas 77094, or to your favorite local animal shelter, honoring her lifelong love and compassion for animals.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to a small reception from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service to gather, visit, and celebrate Yolanda’s life.