Maria "Sheila" Cecilia Gamez

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria "Sheila" Cecilia Gamez, 62, of Pharr, Texas, who left us on Monday, March 24, 2025. Maria was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

Maria is survived by her two daughters, Claudia Cecilia Ijaz and Juanita Cecilia "JC" Garza; her son-in-law, Arslan Ijaz; her beloved siblings, Rosa Gamez, Juan Antonio Perez, Jose Alfonso Gamez, Jose Mario Gamez, Jose Agapito Gamez, Genaro Alfonso Gamez, Alejandra Caballero, and Daniel Gomez; and her cherished grandchildren, Nauman Alfonso Ijaz, Ayesha Safia Ijaz, Rehan Alfonso Ijaz, Anaya Safia Ijaz, and Alayna Safia Ijaz.

Maria was preceded in death by her husband, Juan Sebastian Garza Gonzalez Carvajal, and her parents, Alfonso Gomez and Rita Vielma.

A woman of many passions, Maria enjoyed a life full of vibrant activities. She found joy in crafting, taking long drives on the open road, and playing Loteria with her family. Maria loved watching cooking shows, playing cards, and spending precious moments with her grandchildren at Ross, where they would share laughter and fond memories. Her love for words was evident in her fondness for playing Wordscapes, and she found joy in listening to the music of Celso Peña. Maria had a simple love for the zest of life, often savoring a lime with salt and reminiscing about the days she spent living in Washington.

Her adventurous spirit led her to explore new places, and she took delight in watching ghost and camping videos, always ready for a new discovery. She was also a natural communicator, always sharing pictures of her grandchildren and keeping in touch with friends and family alike, spreading joy with every message. Above all, Maria was known for her generous heart, always eager to help others, share a kind word, and bring comfort to those around her.

Maria will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched with her genuine kindness, love, and laughter.

A visitation for Maria will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with a Rosary at 12:00 pm at Funeraria Del Angel Palm Valley, 4607 North Sugar Road, Pharr, TX 78577. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm, and she will be laid to rest at La Piedad Cemetery, 1801 Wichita Ave, McAllen, TX 78503.

Maria's legacy will live on in the memories she leaves behind, and she will forever be in the hearts of those who loved her.