Maria Elena Villanueva

Maria Elena Villanueva

Edinburg – Maria Elena Villanueva, 47, passed away Sunday, January 28, 2024, at her residence in Edinburg. 

Over 47 years Maria lived the most wonderful life. From the day she was born May 22nd of 1976 to the day of her passing January 28th of 2024. Maria knew that no matter how or when it was her time that the lord had a humongous plan for her. The impact Maria had on everyone’s life was indescribable. She was always the life of the party, the person you would look to when seeking a few words of wisdom or even a chat whenever it was needed. When it all began back in 2019, she knew it was going to be a tough road ahead for everyone especially herself. But the Lord also knew that he chose his strongest warrior. As years passed Maria knew that the lord had a plan for her, for her family, and for her friends. The battle became tough for all, especially Maria, but the lord’s mighty strength filled her and prepared her for what was to come. At the age of 47 the treacherous battle became one that only the lord was able to guide Maria through. Through her last few days Maria made it known and heard that she loved and cared for everyone. Even though the battle took over, she knew that her battle here on earth was done and the Lord’s plan was ready to be fulfilled. Maria wanted to make sure her family and friends were prepared for the new battle that was to begin after her departure. On January 28, 2024 at 1:26 a.m. the Lord received Maria and allowed her to begin her new life up in heaven right beside him. Maria’s impact left on earth will forever live on.

She is preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Guadalupe and Maria Efrain Villanueva; maternal aunt and uncles, Guadalupe Escamilla, Jesus Escamilla, Lalo Villanueva; and baby niece, Angelica Marie Palacios. 

Mrs. Villanueva is survived by her husband, Alfredo Valdez; four children, Destiny Marie (Rosbelt Chapa) Villanueva, Allen Michael Valdez, Olivia Renee Valdez, Alfredo Ramon Valdez III; three grandchildren, Emma Rose Chapa, Rosbelt Chapa Jr., Penelope Lynn Valdez; mother, Maria Helena Villanueva; seven siblings, Linda D. Palacios, Noelia Villanueva, Yvette J. Villanueva, Gustavo Villanueva, Veronica Moncada, Luis A. Villanueva, and Roger L. Villanueva. 

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. with a 6 p.m. prayer service Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 E. Canton in Edinburg.  Funeral service will take place at 12 noon Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Memorial Funeral Home Chapel.  Interment will follow at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.