Rafaela Garza

Born in McAllen, TX, Rafaela was the cherished daughter of the late Manuela and Manuel Garcia. She married the love of her life, Concepción, and together they raised ten children, building a legacy rooted in love, faith, and tradition.

Rafaela was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her heart was filled with love, and she found immense joy in spending time with her family, especially during reunions. Christmas was one of her favorite times of the year. Alongside her late husband, she delighted in making tamales. A gifted cook, every dish she made was memorable, especially her homemade tortillas. She raised her family in the Catholic faith, instilling strong family values that continue to shape generations. She was especially proud to be the mother of three sons who served in the military. Rafaela celebrated life with simple joys. On her birthdays, she loved seafood—particularly fish and shrimp. In her leisure time, she enjoyed watching novelas, coloring, playing lotería, and sipping Coca-Cola. She especially loved watching La Rosa de Guadalupe and El Gordo y La Flaca.

Her signature blessing—placing the sign of the cross on the forehead—will forever remain in the hearts and memories of her beloved family. The values she passed down will live on for generations.

Rafaela was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Concepción Garza; her son, Guadalupe Peter Garza; her parents; and her siblings.

She is survived by nine children: John (Sylvia) Garza, Cipriana (Paul) Zapata, Concepción (Maria) Garza, Jr., Maria Luisa Aguirre, Ricardo (Lucy) Garza, Jose Luis (Estella) Garza, Leonel (Lilia) Garza, Rosalinda (Marty) Engelking, and San Juanita Garza Zapata.

She also leaves behind 40 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Gilberto Garcia Sr. and Juan Garcia; a sister, Gloria Borrego; and numerous extended family members who will continue to honor her memory.

Visitation will be held from 4 pm to 10 pm, with a 6 pm talk on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Funeraria del Angel Palm Valley, 4607 N Sugar Rd Pharr, TX 78577. Visitation will resume at 9 am on Monday, August 11, 2025, with a 9:30 am christian service at Funeraria del Angel Palm Valley, 4607 N Sugar Rd Pharr, TX 78577. Burial will follow at Valley Memorial Gardens, 3601-3611 N Taylor Rd, Mission, TX 78573.

Rafaela Garza will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services are under the direction of Funeraria del Angel Palm Valley in Pharr.