Balvina Vargas

Weslaco- Balvina Vargas, a beloved member of the Weslaco community, passed away on August 19, 2024, at 83. Born on August 9, 1941, in Weslaco, Texas, to Felix and Nemecia (Espinoza) Hernandez, Balvina dedicated her life to her family, faith, and the values she instilled during childhood.

Her journey began as she worked alongside her 14 older siblings in the fields, learning the profound lessons of hard work and resilience. This early experience shaped her character and would serve her well throughout her life. Despite facing significant health challenges, including a year-long battle with tuberculosis, Balvina demonstrated remarkable strength and perseverance.

Later, Balvina went to work for McManus Produce. She met her soulmate, Javier Vargas, in 1963, and they were married in July 1969. Their union was built on love, dedication, and mutual respect, which became evident in their shared life.

A devout Catholic, Balvina was an active member of St. Joan of Arc Church and volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society for many years. Her faith was integral to her life, as she ensured her children received all their sacraments and prayed the rosary daily.

Balvina's home was a hub of warmth and love, particularly during special occasions. Each Halloween, she would set up a Day of the Dead altar in honor of deceased family and friends, a tradition that lasted throughout November. The delightful aroma of buñuelos marked New Year's celebration, a cherished family recipe passed down from her mother-in-law, Romana Vargas. These memories testify to her devotion to family and her cultural heritage.

As a matriarch, Balvina embraced her role with grace and compassion, especially after the passing of Nemecia. She kept in touch with extended family and friends, ensuring everyone felt connected and valued. She had the remarkable ability to listen without judgment, offering support and love unconditionally. Her caring nature made all who knew her feel cherished and secure.

When Balvina wasn't volunteering, homemaking, or talking on the phone, she enjoyed trying her luck while taking trips with family and friends to casinos. She always participated in local gambling pots during football season, especially during the Dallas Cowboys games. Balvina's favorite television shows were old westerns and Hallmark movies, especially during Christmas. 

Balvina also enjoyed traveling to visit family members. Colorado was a favorite destination. She also enjoyed social media, and as a "newbie," she quickly caught on and enjoyed all the photos. 

Balvina never retired from homemaking. Her food was always delicious, and the house was always clean. The Vargas home was welcoming and a welcome haven to the countless nieces and nephews. Balvina was always willing to help, and often, helping involved a ride to or from somewhere. Eventually, most of Balvina's nieces and nephews lovingly referred to her as "the family taxi."

Balvina is preceded in death by her parents, Felix and Nemecia Hernandez; her siblings, Gavina, Julia, Teresa, and Jose Angel Hernandez, Gelacia Fuentes (Crecencio), Jose Hernandez, Jose Adrian Hernandez (Josefina), Tomasa Del Toro (German), Osvaldo Hernandez (Constancia), Jesus Hernandez (Shirley), and Petra Rivera. 

Balvina is survived by her loving husband, Javier Vargas; their children, Joel Javier “JJ”, Eva, and Felix Vargas, grandchild Vitali Ambriz; her siblings Ester Hernandez, Delfino Hernandez (Ramona), Eliseo Hernandez, and Felix Hernandez (Maria), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on August 22, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home, with a Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM. Father Francisco Solis will celebrate Balvina’s life with a Mass on August 23, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, followed by her burial at Weslaco City Cemetery at 11:00 AM.

Vitali Ambriz, Dennis Hernandez, Manuel Flores, Fernando Hernandez, Juan Gonzalez Jr., and Jose Daniel Solis Jr. will serve as pallbearers.

Balvina Vargas's spirit and unwavering love will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and devotion will live on in the hearts of all fortunate enough to know her.