Mary A. Velasquez

A proud native of Robstown, Texas, Mary was born on February 2, 1949, to Gabriel V. and Julia G. Alaniz. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

Mary’s greatest joy was simply being with her family. Whether it was playing board games, cards, dominoes, rummy, or scratching off Texas Lottery tickets, she was always ready to join the fun. But what excited her most were family road trips to the big casinos—gambling was in her blood. Some of her most cherished traditions were early morning gatherings at her mother’s home, where she and her five sisters, brother, and nieces would enjoy coffee, tacos, and chalupa bingo. These joyful mornings continued until just a few months ago, when our beloved Welita passed away at the age of 102.

Mary also had a deep love for the outdoors. She enjoyed camping, fishing, and tending to her plants and gardens. A passionate sports fan, she was a constant presence on the sidelines, cheering on her children and grandchildren—never missing a game and always supporting her family with unmatched energy.

Weekends were made for family BBQs, a cold Miller Lite in hand, and her favorite Tejano and Country music playing in the background. Saturday mornings were reserved for garage sales and thrift store adventures with her sisters and nieces—sometimes squeezing into one car just to be together. Traveling brought her immense joy, whether by plane to different states or across the border into Mexico. She especially loved touring the state of Jalisco, visiting Guadalajara, Tequila, Ocotlán, and the beautiful Lago de Chapala, where she marveled at historic churches and immersed herself in rich Mexican culture.

Mary found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—a cruise down Ocean Drive, a ride across the Harbor Bridge, time at North Beach or the T-Heads, or relaxing at Hazel Bazemore Park while listening to her favorite music. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, she never missed a Sunday or Monday game, but always began her Sundays in church as a faithful member of her congregation.

Mary was full of love and never ran out of it to give. She lived her best life one day at a time, surrounded by the people and moments that meant the most to her. Mary is survived by her loving children: Veronica “Bonnie” V. Lira (Tito Jr.), Maricella “Marcie” V. Castaneda (Manuel Jr.), Julian “J” Velasquez (Debra), and Steven E. Velasquez.

She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild—each a testament to her love and devotion as a mother and grandmother.

Mary is also survived by her beloved siblings: Enedina Mireles, Teresa Gonzalez, Trine Silguero, Robert Alaniz, Hilda Gutierrez, and Sylvia Alaniz. Her spirit will continue to live on in each of them, in every laugh, every game night, and every road trip.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Hector H. Velasquez; her parents, Gabriel V. and Julia G. Alaniz; her sons, Hector H. Velasquez Jr. and Steven E. Velasquez; her grandson, Justin J. Velasquez; and her great-granddaughter, Kayleigh A. Lira. Though they are no longer physically with us, their spirits live on in the hearts of those who loved them, and Mary is now reunited with them in eternal peace.

Visitation for Mary will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel-Memorial Park, 4607 FM 1889, Robstown, TX 78380 with a rosary from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Visitation will resume on Friday, July 25, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at St Anthony's Church, 204 Dunne Ave, Robstown, TX 78380 with a Funeral Mass from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Services will conclude at church.