Laurentina M. Garcia

November 30, 1926 - February 28, 2016

McAllen “We travel through this life blessed by those we love.” Laurentina M. Garcia was truly blessed by the many friends and family she loved and who loved her. She went to be with the Lord on February 28, 2016. She was born November 30, 1926 in Mission, Texas. She grew up with three wonderful brothers Joaquin Martinez, Jr., Carlos L. Martinez, and Dario L. Martinez. Laurentina graduated from SMU in 1949 with a degree in education and was an outstanding teacher admired by her many students. She married Esteban Garcia, Jr. and had seven children who survive her: Esteban Garcia III (Oma), Rebecca Garcia (Lee de la Houssaye), Elva G. Pegram (Jack), Sylvia G. Hernandez (Calixto), Victoria G. Shoopman (Hank), Gerardo L. Garcia (Elvira), Carlos O. Garcia (Melissa) as well as 20 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Laurentina was preceded in death by her parents Joaquin and Victoria Martinez, and her brothers Joaquin, Jr. and Carlos. After the death of her husband Esteban Garcia, Jr. in 1975, she showed us all the meaning of strength and courage as she raised seven children and ran Tacubaya, the family ranch, with the help of her sons. Most importantly, she taught us how to live joyously and how powerful the lifelong love of one person can be. The family would like to thank her personal caregivers, in particular Ildefonsa “Ponchita” Perez for her unfailing dedication. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 2, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church located at 2201 Martin Ave in McAllen, TX from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a rosary following thereafter at 7:00 PM. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, March 3, at 10:00 AM at Holy Spirit Church followed by burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Mission, TX.