Rita A. Esparza

Rita was born in Socorro, TX. She and her nine brothers and sisters were raised in Ysleta, where her carpenter father built the family home. From a young age, she helped her mother raise the younger brothers and sisters. She was known for her positive outlook on life and had genuine compassion for all people. She was the person people wanted to be with during times of need and joy.

Through one of her many friends, she met the man who became her husband of 68 years, Hector Esparza. Rita dedicated her life to their 6 children and 12 grandchildren, working to help them in any way she could. She understood the importance of love, and brought all her family-brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews together for regular Sunday dinners and family reunions.

She was an active member of St. Pius Church for 40 years, and a friend to many at her job at Mervyn's store.

Her kind heart and joyful smile will be missed by all the lives she touched throughout the world. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Centro Santa Catalina home for women and children in Juarez: centrosantacatalina.org

She was called to join God with her parents: Aurora and Gabriel Manriquez.

She is survived by her siblings: Frank Manriquez, Victor Manriquez, Aurelia Rosales, Gabriel Manriquez Jr., Alex Manriquez, Salvador Manriquez, Martin Manriquez, Rose Mary Barrera, and Luis Manriquez; and her children: Hector Esparza, Stanley Esparza, Vivian Esparza, Carrie Taylor, Anne Esparza, and Eugene Esparza.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 23, 2018 from 5-9pm with a Rosary reciting at 6pm at Martin Funeral Home East, 1460 George Dieter Dr. Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 9:00am at St. Pius X Catholic Church with a Committal to follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.

Services entrusted to Martin East www.funerariasdelangel.com/martin-east