Alice Emilie Madrid

Alice, more commonly known by her middle name Emilie, peacefully passed away at the age of 72 years of age with family by her side. Emilie was preceded in death by her parents, Gabriel L. Madrid Sr and Alice Cruz Madrid. She is survived by her sister Beverly Ochoa (Carlos), brothers Gabriel Madrid Jr., Carlos Madrid (Barbara) and Anthony Madrid (Gayle), 8 nieces and nephews, and 19 great-nieces and nephews.

Emilie was born on June 23, 1953, in San Antonio, Tx and from an early age carried a deep compassion for children, especially those facing physical or intellectual challenges. She graduated from Winston Churchill High School in 1972 and went on to earn her degree in Elementary Education from The University of the Incarnate Word in 1976.

Her calling as an educator was unmistakable. Beginning in 1975, Emilie devoted more than three decades to teaching special education students across several San Antonio schools, including Stephen F. Austin Elementary, Brackenridge High School, Green Elementary and Eloise Japhet Elementary School. She retired from full-time teaching in April 2008, yet her dedication to students continued as she worked as a substitute teacher throughout the North East Independent School District.

Faith was an important part of Emilie’s life. For roughly twenty years, she taught catechism at St. Philip of Jesus Catholic Church, sharing patience, kindness, and quiet strength with the children she guided.

Emilie entered The Waterford Memory Care Community on February 1, 2022, and passed peacefully on November 23, 2025. She was known for her gentle heart and unwavering generosity.

Though she never claimed to be a cook, her once-a-year Thanksgiving Jello dessert was always a family favorite. Emilie had a warm sense of humor, an eagerness to babysit whenever needed, and an uncanny ability to know exactly where to find a great hamburger.

She loved to travel—making cherished trips to Colorado, exploring Europe, and taking scenic drives through the Texas Hill Country. Music brought her joy, especially the songs of John Denver and George Strait. She was a devoted Spurs fan, with Manu Ginobili holding a special place in her heart. Animals without a home also touched her deeply, and she carried a soft spot for them throughout her life.

Emilie enjoyed the comforts and small luxuries of life, but she was never materialistic. She lived with humility, kindness, and a generous spirit that enriched everyone around her. Her life leaves behind a legacy of compassion, humor, and unwavering love—especially for the children she served so faithfully.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Waterford Westover Hills Assisted Living and Memory Care for the compassionate and devoted care they provided to our sister over the past three and a half years.