Sylvia Louise Gonzales

Sylvia Louise Gonzales passed away on Thursday, November 25, 2021 at the age of 77. Sylvia was a native Houstonian, born on January 21, 1944 to Pedro Gonzales and Louisa Piña Gonzales. Sylvia received a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Texas Southern University , and a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. She also received her Peace Officer Certification from the University of Houston Downtown, Criminal Justice Center.

Sylvia was a passionate and a strong-willed woman who had careers in both Law Enforcement and Education. She worked as a Special Education teacher, as well as the Harris County Juvenile Probation Officer for 28 years. Before retiring, Sylvia became the Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 6 Captain and worked for the United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration.

Sylvia was a major contributor to the civil rights movement. She served as a past National Vice President for the Southwest League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and was an active member for over 40 years. She also helped established the Greater Houston Coalition for Justice, along with Johnny Mata, which established the representation of all cultures, religious groups, and ethnic backgrounds. She participated in numerous marches and demonstrations to protest discrimination in the workplace, immigration, and civil rights issues.

Sylvia was also a member of the Anti-Defamation League and traveled to Israel on a Latino Leaders Mission trip. She also traveled to Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico on mission trips.

On April 22, 2012, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee presented Sylvia with a Certificate of Congressional Recognition at the LULAC National Women’s Conference. The Drug Enforcement Administration also awarded her with a Certificate of Appreciation for her outstanding contributions in the field. And most notably, Sylvia received a Proclamation from Mayor Bill White on February 12, 2007 proclaiming it the Sylvia Louise Gonzales Day.

Sylvia always remained faithful to her faith and beliefs in her church and her community. She acted in good faith as a strong advocate for children and grandparents rights. Despite her commitment to the community, she raised two daughters, a son, and four grandchildren.

The visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home located at 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 9, 2021at 2:00 PM followed by graveside ceremony at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkLawndaleFH.com for the Gonzales family.