Celestina Esmeralda Graham, affectionately known as Tina, embarked on her final journey on August 15, 2025, at the age of 65, in her hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Born on April 5, 1960, Tina’s life was a canvas of love, creativity, and faith, painted with vibrant experiences and the devotion of her family.
Tina’s life was a radiant testament to the strength and beauty of family. She loved her family deeply, and family unity was at the very heart of who she was. Tina was life and love in the family—always showing up to gatherings, celebrations, and milestones, big or small. Her presence brought joy, her laughter lifted spirits, and her support reached across generations.
She was a cherished wife to her beloved Donald Graham. And, a devoted sister to Cynthia Lopez, Leticia Lopez, Robert, and Charles De Rivera. She was also a loved in-law to Joseph Pierce and Mary Francis De Rivera. Tina cherished her relationships with her nieces and nephews, sharing love and laughter with Laura Lopez-Joseph, Gina Lopez, Venniece and Don Robbins, David Alvarado, James Lopez, Michael and Heather Powell, and Caleb and Samantha Cole. She was a fun-loving great aunt to Laura Alexandra and Robert Beagles, Stephen and Priscilla Martinez, Jasmine Marti, and Samuel Martinez. Her joy stretched even further as a great-great aunt, celebrating Sophia, Jude, Mariah, Alice, Madeleine, Sophia, Alexander, Nick Lopez, Caleb Lopez, Rylan, Lincoln, Heidi, Dean, and Charlotte.
Tina’s love for family also extended to her cousins: Pat Reyes-Fault, Chris Reyes-Lazarin, Linda Reyes-Lopez, Rosie Reyes-Lopez, Angela Reyes, Jaime Reyes, John and Liz Fore, Lydia Torres-Edney, Laura Osan, William Logan, Damon LaScott, Paul, Peter and Glenn Rodriguez. Among her elders, Tina treasured her uncle Ray Rodriguez and her aunt Virginia and Mel Logan. For every generation—siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and beyond—Tina was a steady presence of love, encouragement, and joy. Her legacy of family unity is one of her greatest gifts, and it will continue to ripple through the lives of all who carry her memory.
Tina was also deeply loved by her husband Donald’s family, who cherished her as their own. She was a beloved in-law to Uncle Bob Graham, cousins Robert and Pat Graham, Danny and Sue Graham, and Jeanne Graham. With warmth and sincerity, Tina wove herself into their lives, leaving behind bonds of affection that will always be remembered.
Tina’s circle of love extended far beyond her family. Friendship was not just something she had—it was who she was. She cultivated amazing, deep friendships that lasted a lifetime, becoming a sister and confidante to many. One friend recalled meeting Tina at just five years old in elementary school. At first, she didn’t like Tina much—Tina was always out front giving speeches or singing solos while she stood in the back with smaller parts. But one day, she decided instead of standing behind Tina, she would stand beside her. “It was the best decision I ever made,” she said. From that moment, Tina welcomed her in, and their bond became unbreakable. In middle school, Tina met Patty and Jackie, and the four of them formed a rare sisterhood that lasted a lifetime. “Friendship like ours is very rare,” her friends shared. “We have been so fortunate to have had each other for so long.”
A proud graduate of Fox Tech High School, Tina built a fulfilling career at Southwest Airlines, where she worked with dedication until retirement. For her, work was never just a job but an opportunity to uplift, connect, and contribute.
Tina’s Buddhist faith deeply influenced her perspective on life and death. As a member of Soka Gakkai International (SGI), she often spoke of the power of creating good causes—reminding others that at any moment, we can begin anew, planting seeds of compassion, wisdom, and courage. She practiced faithfully with her beloved Big Country District for many years, grateful for the support of senior members in faith and committed to encouraging younger women through the Byakuren, or White Lotus, group. Her life was a living example of this principle: she created causes for joy through her creativity, for love through her relationships, and for hope through her resilient spirit.
Tina also had a true traveler’s spirit. Before she met Donald, she explored the streets of France and Germany, experiences that deepened her love of culture and history. Together with Donald, she continued this spirit of adventure—traveling to Hawaii, the place they loved most, returning often to its tropical beauty. They also made unforgettable memories in San Miguel de Allende, a trip that held deep meaning for them both. Their journeys carried them to Monterrey, Mexico, to Belize, and beyond. Each adventure reflected Tina’s joy in exploring the world and her openness to its beauty.
Tina’s passion was matched by her creativity, which was evident in all her endeavors. She approached life with a loving heart, seeing the potential for beauty in both the ordinary and the extraordinary.
Today, as we honor Tina, we are invited to continue the causes she began: to live with intention, to show kindness, and to believe in new beginnings. Though she has shed the form we knew, her radiant spirit remains a source of guidance and inspiration.
Her life expressed the timeless truth that joy and sorrow are interwoven, each drawing us deeper into love. Tina’s story does not end here. It is etched in the hearts of all who knew her and will continue to resonate as strength, courage, and light for years to come.
A memorial service will be held at Porter Loring Mortuary West, on Saturday, September 6, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Tina loved color and requested people wear colorful clothing at her memorial service.
