María Elena Castillo

María Elena Castillo, 82, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 22, 1942, in San Antonio, Texas, María lived a life defined by resilience, deep faith, and an unwavering dedication to her family and community.

María spent more than 20 years working as a bilingual classroom aide, where she became a pillar of encouragement for children navigating two languages and two cultures. Her calm presence, reassuring words, and ability to make every child feel seen left a lifelong impact on countless students.

She married her husband, José Castillo, in 1964, and together they built a home where traditions thrived—holiday tamaladas, family rosaries, Sunday dinners, and evenings spent sharing stories on the porch. María was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose warmth could be felt in every hug, every home-cooked meal, and every piece of advice given with sincerity.

A devoted member of St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, María was known for organizing community potlucks, coordinating holiday food drives, and always remembering birthdays with homemade cookies or a handwritten note. She loved tending to her rose bushes, sewing quilts for her grandchildren, and listening to boleros while cooking.

María is survived by her children, Ana (Luis) Navarro and Roberto (Claudia) Castillo; her five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and her sister, Gloria Rivera. She is preceded in death by her husband, José, and her parents, Esteban and Lucía Rivera.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

María leaves behind a legacy rich with love, tradition, and compassion—one that will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew her.