Gloria Catalina Carbajal, 71, a lifetime resident of El Paso, TX, passed away peacefully at her home on June 30, 2022. She was a proud Texan till her very last day. Katy, as she was affectionally called, was extremely devoted to her family and had an especially close bond with her mother. Behind Katy’s quiet demeanor was a strong woman with a sharp mind, dark sense of humor and quick wit. She is fondly loved, cherished and missed by all.
Katy was a trailblazer in the automotive industry. From a very young age, Katy demonstrated an aptitude in mechanics. She was one of the first female automotive mechanics in El Paso. She was largely self-taught but did attend El Paso Community College at night to hone her craft. She started her professional career at Sears and during her 40-year career she worked at various garages in the city, including for a time, at her own shop. The highlight of her career was being hired as the first female Courtesy Patrol Officer for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). During the application process, Katy was the highest scoring candidate based on her knowledge of automobiles. She loved helping the community and being part of the TxDOT family. She was extremely proud of her career at TxDOT and spoke often and fondly of her 21-year career there.
Katy is survived by her two beloved sons: Antonio Carbajal; and David Carbajal and his wife Kelly Hughes. She is also survived by her two grandchildren, Sophia Carbajal and Isabel Carbajal, as well as four sisters, two brothers and several nieces and nephews.
A visitation for Katy will be held Thursday, July 14, 2022 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Crestview Funeral Home, 1462 North Zaragoza Rd, El Paso, TX 79936. A vigil service will occur Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 6:00 PM, 1462 North Zaragoza Rd., El Paso, Texas 79936. A funeral mass will occur Friday, July 15, 2022 at 11:30 AM at Guardian Angel Catholic Church, 3021 Frutas Ave, El Paso, Texas 79905. A burial service will occur Friday, July 15, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Evergreen East Cemetery, 12400 East Montana, El Paso, Texas 79938.
