Elvira Emilia Almaraz Castro

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Elvira Emilia Almaraz Castro on May 30, 2024, at the age of 88. Elvira was born on March 25, 1936, to Maria R. Almaraz† and Pedro Almaraz†, who helped shape her values and love for family.

Elvira was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, and friend. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering support were felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Maria R. Almaraz and Pedro Almaraz, and her cherished siblings Juan Gutierrez, Severo Almaraz, Alfredo Almaraz, Pedro Almaraz Jr., Ysidra Nuñez Corona, her first-born son Ruben R. Castro and her dear granddaughter Petra Castro Williams.

Elvira is survived by her sons Ralph R. Castro, Sr. (Cristina), Richard R. Castro (Elizabeth); siblings Ana Marie Almaraz Aprile, Lydia Nuñez Flores, and Teresa Almaraz Tellez, who will forever treasure their memories with her. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren Tina Marie Brown, Vanessa Castro, Angela Castro, Krystal Saavedra, Christina Ortiz, Ralph R. Castro, Jr., Juan Carlos Castro, Erica Castro, and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren who were the light of her life.

Throughout her life, Elvira was known for her generosity, kindness, and dedication to her family. She spent her days ensuring that her loved ones were cared for and always felt her boundless love. Her home was a haven of warmth and hospitality, where numerous gatherings were filled with laughter, stories, and the delicious meals she prepared. Along with her quick wit and sassiness, there was never a dull moment when she was around.

In 2009, Vera was fortunate to travel to Rome where she explored Vatican City and was present during a Papal blessing from Pope Benedict XVI. In 2011, she traveled to the Holy Land where she spent 10 days walking and visiting places she’d read in the Bible. These experiences stayed with her throughout the remainder of her life.

Vera dedicated 25 years of services to the State of Texas working at the Texas Rehabilitation Commission which later became the Department of Assistive Rehabilitative Services (DARS). There, she made life long friends who remember her as someone who showed them how to be strong, committed and diligent workers.

In 2021, Vera moved to Flower Mound, Texas and established new friendships when she moved into The Oaks of Flower Mound Assisted Living Facility. There, she made new friends and her circle was known as the “Golden Girls”.

Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. Her memory will be cherished, and her love will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Elvira's life will be held to honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude, Shriners of Houston or a charity of choice in her name, celebrating her generous and compassionate nature.

Rest in peace, Vera, you will be dearly missed and forever remembered.