Esmeralda Castañón

Esmeralda (Emmy) Castañón was a giving and caring person, ethical and full of integrity and warmth. She was filled with empathy towards others and brought out the best in those with whom she interacted. Although, at times, she could appear to be quiet and reserved, Emmy could light up a room with her personality. She laughed often and much. Her sensitivity, kindness and generous attitude made her a wonderful friend to all who knew her.

Emmy was born on December 18, 1944, in Roma, Texas to Laurentina and Adan Guerra. She was the eleventh of 12 children and the fourth girl. As a child, Emmy enjoyed dance and maintained several close friendships that she kept throughout her life. Her best friend was Sylvia Guerra Salinas. A good student who was enthusiastic about learning, Emmy was a high achiever. At Roma High School, she was an honor student, 1st Vice President of her class, and a successful competitor in UIL events. She graduated from Roma High School in 1963.

On June 1, 1966, Emmy exchanged wedding vows with Rodolfo Perez Castañón at Cristo Rey Church of Austin, Texas. She and her husband Rudy had two children, Therese and Marissa. Emmy was a gentle, encouraging, supportive and loving mother. She dedicated herself to the success and happiness of her family.

Emmy projected a positive influence in her workplace. She was a reliable and effective employee of the IRS for many years, having worked as a data transcriber until her retirement in 2005. She believed that all people deserved respect and equality in the workplace and served, for a time, as a Union Stewart. She was firm and articulate in voicing her concerns and suggestions for the resolution of challenges.

Emmy was imaginative and artistic. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing brain games. She also appreciated the drama of telenovelas and shared that passion, almost daily, with her sister Irma. Emmy appreciated harmony and quiet and at one time greatly enjoyed gardening. Spending time with her grandchildren, Isabella and Evan, as well as her children pleased her the most. She spent countless hours relaxing with family, laughing, listening, comforting, giving advice and sharing memories and experiences. Emmy was also a lover of animals and cherished her pets Gwenyth, Coco, Chiquita and Chachita.

Emmy passed away on October 7, 2015, in Austin, Texas. She is survived by her daughters, Therese and Marissa; grandchildren, Isabella and Evan; and many brothers and sisters.

Though she was a private and humble person, Emmy was always able and willing to give of herself. She was extremely spiritual and carried with her an almost mystical sense of life. Emmy shared herself freely and family and friends will remember her for the strength of her convictions.

A Celebration of Esmeralda Magdalena Castañón’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, October 17, 2015, in the Chapel of Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home with Father Charlie Van Winkle officiating. Emmy will be laid to rest at Assumption Cemetery.