Dr. Pamela K. Chavez

Born on November 22, 1949, to Harold Gillis and Mary Felix, Pam spent her life rooted in the San Antonio community. She graduated from MacArthur High School and went on to earn a degree in Biochemistry from Trinity University — the beginning of a lifelong love of science, learning, and curiosity.

In 1970, Pam married Jorge Chavez, her partner in both life and work. Together they raised four children — David, Robert, Michael, and Jennifer — and built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and open doors. Whether cheering from the sidelines, cooking legendary meals, or offering quiet support, Pam was the heart of her family.

Pam worked side by side with Jorge in his medical practice, where her kindness and deep empathy left a lasting impression on the women and families they cared for. Beyond her work, Pam found joy in her garden, in the kitchen, and around the table — where she mastered both the art of French cooking and the art of making guests feel cherished. No celebration was too small for Pam to make special, and her passion for hosting was matched only by her devotion to the people around her.

Her family and friends will remember Pam for her generous spirit, her unwavering faith, and the bright, welcoming smile that had a way of making everyone feel at home.

Pam is survived by her husband, Dr. Jorge Chavez; her children Robert and Jennifer Chavez; her son-in-law Michael Goldman; and her beloved grandchildren, Olive and Lucia Chavez-Goldman. She is reunited in peace with her sons David and Michael Chavez, who preceded her in passing.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 17, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home. A Rosary will be said at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 21, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Interment will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park. All who loved Pam are warmly invited to join in honoring her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org), a cause Pam held close to her heart.

Pam’s parting words to her family were simple and full of her signature wisdom:

“Live once, to do everything.”