Hilaria Espinoza

Hilaria “Lala” Herrera Espinoza, a lifelong resident of Waco, Texas, passed away on November 12, 2025, just weeks shy of her 100th birthday. She was born on December 21, 1925, to Juanita and Florentino Herrera.

Lala was predeceased by her beloved husband, Fernando “Fred” Espinoza. The two were married on January 16, 1949, and shared a beautiful 42 years together filled with travel, laughter, and love. She was also preceded in death by her son, Richard Espinoza (2022), and siblings Frank Herrera, Florentino Herrera Jr., Mercedes Montoya, and Antonia Martinez.

She is survived by her children: Bob (Gerri) Espinoza of Riverside, CA, Rita (Wayne) Painter of Austin, TX and Ren (JoAnn) Espinoza of Bruceville-Eddy, TX.

Lala leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Justin (Leanne) Espinoza, Hillary Johnson, Shelby (Eric McGinnis) Espinoza, Matthew (Dee Ann) Espinoza, Nikki (Francis) Painter Dulles, and Kenny (Lyndsey) Painter; as well as her great-grandchildren: Jay and Evan Espinoza, Cooper Espinoza, Desiree and Marvel Espinoza, Livvy and Millie Johnson, and Blakely and Blaine Dulles. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Her surviving siblings include Phillip Herrera, Robert Herrera, Benny (Tony) Herrera, Matilda Sanchez, Mary Ordonez, and Fred (Josie) Herrera.

Other family members are sisters-in-law Gloria Espinoza, Carlotta Herrera, and Doreen Herrera.

Lala’s life was deeply rooted in faith, service, and family. She was a devoted member of St. Francis Catholic Church, where she taught religious education and sang in the choir. She also served as Past President of the Hijas de Maria. Lala graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1944. After marriage, she became a founding member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a faithful member of Los Apostolados.

Lala was known for her extraordinary generosity and the love she poured into her family and community. She made hundreds of tamales, enchiladas, tortillas, and countless other delicious foods for those she cared about. She took pride in simple acts of service—especially ironing, sewing and participating in church activities. She found extreme joy in helping others.

In her later years, she attended senior daycare at the Age of Central Texas Thrive Center, where compassionate caregivers enriched her life with crafts, yoga, music, and fellowship. Many thanks to the Thrive Staff for loving our Mom.

Lala was the heart of her family—a gentle, faithful, and loving presence. She is now our cherished guardian angel, watching over us with the same warmth she shared throughout her long life.

Service Information:

Sunday November 16th visitation at 4 pm, Rosary at 5 pm. Connally-Compton Funeral Home 4400 West Waco Dr. 76710

Mass on Monday November 17th at 10 am. Sacred Heart Catholic Church 2621 Bagby Ave. 76711

Burial at Oakwood Cemetery 2124 South 5th St. 76706

Lunch at the church hall afterwards. Please join us so we may share joyous memories.