Lucila R. Peña

“Faith is everything.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Lucila R. Peña, it summarized in every way who she was. She was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around her and always thinking of others before herself. She was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything she did. She was a sincere, gentle person who truly cared about those around her.

Lucila was born on August 5, 1933 at Jimenez, Tamaulipas in Mexico. She was the daughter of Leopoldo & Lucila Rodriguez. As a child, she learned to be conscientious, responsible and prayerful. These were all traits that she would carry with her throughout her life.

As a young girl, Lucila was always aware of how others around her felt and this quality served her well. With a deep capacity to tolerate the feelings of others, Lucila was generally able to avoid conflicts. It seemed as if Lucila was the family member who was always working to keep stress at bay. Preferring a quiet environment where she could concentrate, Lucila also had the ability to relate well with her family and friends. Lucila was raised with two younger brothers and one younger sister. Younger brother Ismael, younger sister Lupita, youngest brother Leopoldo. Lucila was constantly involved in activities with her family. Lucila and her siblings deeply cared for each other and shared many life experiences over the years.

Growing up, Lucila was one of those children who didn’t need to be in the center of a whirlwind of activity. She was content to entertain herself. Lucila was never pushy when it came to games and other activities, but rather, she was able to enjoy the pure fun these could bring. In just about everything she did as a child, Lucila was intent on pleasing both the adults and the other children around her. Lucila took part in a number of activities as a child. In her spare time she liked to cook, garden, & read especially scripture.

Most folks would say that Lucila was shy until they got to know her. Those who were privileged to know her well learned that she was a sweet, good friend. Lucila was reluctant to generalize about people, and she based her friendships on her personal experiences. Because of this, Lucila best trusted those people that she truly knew. She was concerned about how those around her felt, and she always seemed to uncover the positive side of people. She could relate to others and had the ability to see their point of view, to “walk a mile in their shoes,” as the saying goes. The friends that she made, Lucila kept. Later in life, she became friends with everyone in her large extended family & church community.

Love can’t be defined but must be experienced. That was so true for Lucila. On August 25, 1956 Lucila married Genaro "Jerry" Pena at Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Brownsville, TX. She was totally committed to Genaro (Jerry) and maintained traditional ideals about marriage. They had a beautiful marriage & loved each other without condition. They were completely devoted to each other & always preserved harmony even during the most trying times.

Lucila was a good mother to her children. She had “old fashioned” parental values and could handle typical family conflicts in a fair and calm manner. Because she trusted emotions, Lucila was reluctant to force issues and used gentle persuasion to resolve situations. In this way she seemed to radiate an aura of warmth and caring to those around her, always thinking before acting. In addition, Lucila was a master planner. No matter how hectic life around her might be, she seemed to know and track everyone’s schedule. Lucila was blessed with two children, daughter Belinda and son, Genaro. They were also blessed with five grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Melissa, Genaro, Alejandro.

Lucila liked to experience things first hand, in addition to simply learning about them. This quality influenced Lucila's choice of leisure time activities. A methodical and patient worker, Lucila preferred to set aside uninterrupted time to work on her hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were travel, gardening, cooking, spending time with family. Lucila was content to sit quietly enjoying her hobbies and being around family.

She learned to be a sports fan like her husband and enjoyed watching her favorite teams whenever she got the opportunity. Tops on her list were baseball & basketball especially if her grandchildren were playing.

Throughout her later years, Lucila was an active member of the 50+ Club, Bible Study club, and various activities at St Matthew the Evangelist Catholic Church.

An individual who respected and maintained traditional values, her faith was most important to Lucila. Her compassion, consideration and sympathy toward others was evident in her personal beliefs. She was a member of St. Matthew's since 1993. During that time, she participated in many church committees and activities.

Anyone who traveled or went on vacation with Lucila had smooth sailing. Favorite vacations included visiting the Holy Land, Vatican City, Italy, Spain, France, Mexico, Canada.

Lucila passed away on October 28, 2022 at Regent Care Center of the Woodlands. Lucila fought a brave battle against cancer. She is survived by her children Belinda (widow of Manuel) & Genaro (spouse Adriana), her grandchildren Michael (spouse Sara), Matthew, Melissa (fiance Josh), Genaro & Alejandro. Services held at St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic Church. Lucila was laid to rest in Brookside Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Houston, TX.

Lucila was a person who was an example of living a Christ-like life. Her compassion, her gentleness and her faith were outstanding traits. She sincerely helped in any way she could, always giving of herself. For her, God & family were everything, & she was well-loved. She lived a life of peace and gratitude. She will be missed.

Services will be held at Brookside Funeral Home Champions 3410 Cypress Creek Pky. Houston, TX the Visitation is Monday November 7, from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM with the Rosary at 7:00 PM.

The Mass will be held on Tuesday November 8, 2022 at10:00 AM at St. Matthew Catholic Church 9915 Hollister St. Houston, TX. Lunch will follow.

The Burial will held for immediate family members only on Tuesday November 8, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home & Memorial Park 13401 Eastex Fwy. Houston, TX

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