Graciela Imelda Chavez

Graciela “Chela” Imelda Chavez passed away on April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas at the age of 64. During her lifetime, she devoted a selfless dedication to her family through sacrifice, medical wisdom, and love in abundance. Through empathy she made an everlasting positive impact until her final call of duty. They say, “A Mother is the truest friend. When trials heavy sudden fall upon us; still will she cling to us, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”

This beautiful story began when Chela was a young girl growing up with 3 sisters and 4 brothers. Her siblings recall her social circle always full. Often times hosting slumber parties, building a strong bond with her sisters, and navigating the world with grace and strength.

Chela attended the High School for Medical Health Professions. This accomplishment was the beginning of her 40-year career in the medical field. As a Medical Assistant she went above and beyond her regular duties, recognized for her outstanding work and perseverance. At times when the Doctor she worked for was not available, she performed the inhouse procedures. This grit displayed her exceptional clinical skills and compassion in providing patient care.

Chela was the heart of her family. She was ready with a listening ear, a warm embrace, and a helping hand. Her favorite pastime was cooking. She was a culinary enthusiast, a natural gift passed down from her late dear Mother. She was the queen of the kitchen, ensuring everyone ate well and the space stayed organized. A fond memory from her children was a family monthly birthday celebration which included a big homemade cake. This tradition was intended to make a special occasion in her kitchen with a song of joy, family, and camaraderie.

Chela’s life was defined by her unwavering strength, resilience, and dedication by providing care and support, both physically and emotionally, to everyone that was blessed to cross her loving path.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Albert Salas. Her beloved 4 children - Sarah Imelda Chavez (Lucio Linares), Enrique Chavez III (Miranda King), Marcela Chavez (Robert Ramos), and Mellissa Marie Chavez (Pablo Moguel Juarez). Her cherished grandchildren Nathan, Ilyanna, Ceseli, Jayden, Destiny, Daisy, Donnie, Dominic, Sierah, Karen, Abby, Bonnie, Eduardo, Natalie, and Angelica. Great grandkids- Jaydah, Kimberly, Noah, and Melanie. Her siblings - Sylvia Rivera, Ruben Jr., Ricardo, Roberto, and Rolando Rodriguez.

She was preceded in death by her Parents - Ruben Sr. and Bertha Yolanda Rodriguez, sisters Rosa Marie Rodriguez and Bertha Alicia Guerra, and niece Rosa Maria Chavez.

A rosary prayer for Graciela will be held Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 7:00PM to 8:00PM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039, followed by a visitation from 6:00PM to 11:00PM.

A funeral service will occur Thursday, April 24, 2025 beginning at 11AM at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 501 Tidwell Rd, Houston, TX 77022. A committal service to follow at Historic Hollywood 3506 N Main Houston, Texas 77009.

Pallbearers: Ruben Rodriguez Jr., Ricardo Rodriguez, Roberto Rodriguez, Rolando Rodriguez, Enrique Chavez III, Nathan Maldonado, Donnie Ramos, Dominic Ramos, Jayden Fuentes, and Eduardo Rodriguez.