Maria Elena Chavarria Covarrubias

“Death ends a life, not a relationship,” is a profoundly appropriate quote by author Mitch Albom, for it is with that sentiment that we solemnly share that our loving relationships with María Elena Chavarría Covarrubias shall continue as we celebrate her life which ended January 10, 2013, in San Antonio, Texas. Born on December 17, 1957 to Ramiro and Bertha Malacara Chavarría in the Alamo City, María Elena was a gift from God, who shared a bounty of God-given talents throughout her lifetime.

After graduation from Highlands High School in 1976, she became a licensed hair stylist, who garnered a dedicated clientele – spanning multiple generations in some families – during her thirty-five year professional career at southeast San Antonio salons.

María Elena is remembered for her ever-ready smile and remarkably gifted hands with which she created fine, hand-crafted heirlooms and gifts, which are cherished by countless friends as loving remembrances of her creative spirit. Throughout her youth and adulthood, she was often inspired by the beauty in nature and seaside venues, where she often vacationed. Forever loyal and concerned with the needs of others, María Elena’s generosity, compassion and dutifulness were exemplary, as many can attest. María Elena had a passion for the beauty in nature, wildlife and, above all, her loving pet and companion, Domino.

She is survived by her parents; sister, Rebecca Chavarría-Chairez; brother in-law, Joe Chairez, Jr.; beloved nieces Lamar Chavarría-Chairez; Carina Wright and her spouse, Joshua; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends, all of whom were part of her extended family. María Elena’s final wish was to express her deepest gratitude to and affection for her aunts, Rachel McCormack and Olivia M. Sánchez, for having accompanied and cared for her and family on many occasions.

Visitation will be at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home on Bandera Road on Sunday, January 13, 2013 from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. with a rosary at 7:00 P.M.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, January 14, 2013 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 7893 N. Grissom Rd. with Rev. Msgr. Patrick Cronin officiating.

Followed by Interment service at: Mission North Burial Park, located at 20900 IH-10 West. Service will conclude at graveside.