Judy’s life journey began on March 18, 1956, in Mercedes, Texas, born to the late Abel and Dora Garza. Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, she brought immense joy to her family from the very start. She graduated from Weslaco High School in 1974, where her vibrant personality truly shone. Judy was a dedicated member of the swim team and a proud, enthusiastic member of the Weslaco Panther Corp Band, where she played the clarinet and held the distinction of being one of the school's original Flag Girls.
With a strong work ethic and determination, Judy pursued higher education later in life, proudly earning her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1992 from the University of Houston–Victoria. She later moved to Austin, Texas, where she dedicated her professional career to public service, working faithfully as an accountant for the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission (TJPC) until her well-earned retirement in 2017. Following her retirement, Judy returned to Victoria, Texas, a community she loved, to enjoy her golden years.
Judy’s greatest masterpiece in life was the love she gave to her family and friends. She leaves behind a profound legacy of unconditional devotion, exceptional warmth, and lifelong friendships. Known for her generous spirit and nurturing heart, Judy’s home was always open, and she was always ready to cook a delicious, comforting meal for anyone who walked through her door. In addition to cooking, she found great happiness in traveling, especially to Isla Mujeres where she loved the calmness of the ocean. She also had a deep love for Tejano music and leaves us with cherished memories of her singing along to her favorite songs.
She was truly the "life of the party," blessed with a bright smile that could effortlessly light up any room and a wonderful sense of humor that brought joy to every occasion. Judy possessed a rare, beautiful gift for bringing people together, bridging distances to keep her circle of friends and family closely knit. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void, and she will be deeply missed by all those who were fortunate to know and love her.
Judy’s memory will be forever cherished by her beloved granddaughter, Isabella Lopez; her devoted sister, Sandra Messbarger; her nephew, Kurt Branson and his wife Stephanie; her adored great-nephews, Landon and Kaden Branson; her sister-in-law, Beatrice Benavides; her faithful, cherished companion, her dog Lala; and countless friends who she considered family.
She is now reunited in heaven with her parents, Dora and Abel Garza; her beloved daughter, Vanessa J. Ybarbo; her precious grandson, Jaxson Leo Lopez; her dear sister, Deborah J. Garza; and her brother-in-law, Richard Messbarger.
Until we see you again, Pa’ arriba, pa’ abajo, pa’l centro, pa’ dentro!
A beautiful celebration of Judy's life, faith, and legacy will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Victory, located at 1309 E. Mesquite Lane, Victoria, TX 77901.
Family and friends are invited to gather for the following morning services:
9:00 AM – Visitation
9:30 AM – Recitation of the Holy Rosary
10:00 AM – Mass of Christian Burial
Following the Mass, Judy will be escorted to her final resting place at Memorial Park Cemetery, 2201 N. Main Street, Victoria, TX. 77901, where she will rest in eternal peace.
Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.colonialfuneralhomevictoria.com.
