Celia Yvonne Riojas

She was born on June 16, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas, to Emilio and Celia Tamayo, both of whom preceded her in death. Celia lived her entire life with a deep appreciation for family, faith, and the simple beauty of a well-cared-for home. She carried herself with quiet strength, grace, and devotion, and those who knew her will remember her as a loving, creative, and selfless woman who gave generously of herself to others.

Celia was a proud graduate of Little Flower High School, Class of 1956. She also attended Our Lady of the Lake College for one year, laying the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of learning. Later in life, she returned to school and earned two associate degrees from San Antonio College in 1993, one in Records Management and one in Office Management. This achievement was especially meaningful because it reflected her determination and resilience. Going back to school and searching for a way forward as a recent widow who had never paid much attention to herself was a huge accomplishment, and it spoke volumes about her character and strength.

For much of her life, Celia devoted herself to her home and family. From 1957 to 1988, she was a dedicated Air Force wife and homemaker, and she embraced that role with love and pride. No matter where they were stationed, she found joy in making things beautiful inside and outside her home, and her creative touch could be seen in every detail. Cooking, gardening, and home improvement projects were among her greatest passions, and she approached each with care and imagination. Her home reflected her heart, and it was a place of warmth, comfort, and welcome to all who entered.

In 1995, Celia began a new chapter in her life when she became a secretary with Northside ISD in San Antonio, Texas, a position she held until 2005. After retiring and moving to Lubbock, Texas, Celia contributed to her new community by volunteering with Covenant Hospital Auxiliary where she was particularly instrumental in helping with translation for the Spanish-speaking patients and families. Her years of service there were marked by dedication, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. She met this new responsibility with the same determination that had guided her through every stage of life, and she continued to inspire those around her by showing that it is never too late to grow, learn, and contribute in meaningful ways.

Her marriage to Ralph O. Riojas, who preceded her in death, was a central part of her life, and she honored that bond through years of steadfast love, commitment, and support of his military career.

She is survived by her children, Rafael Riojas III, Michael Riojas and his wife Glynda Riojas, Andrea Mahan and her husband Tom Mahan, and Marisa Riojas and her wife Holly Simpson. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her love, wisdom, and gentle spirit. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great joy in their lives and accomplishments.

Celia will be remembered for the beauty she created, the meals she prepared, the home she nurtured, and the quiet sacrifices she made for those she loved. Her life was a testament to devotion, perseverance, and grace. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she is no longer present in body, her spirit remains in the memories, traditions, and values she passed down through the generations.

A rosary will be held at 6:00 P.M., on Tuesday, June 16, at Porter Loring Mortuary West.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 A.M., on Wednesday June 17, at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church, with a committal service to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.