Blanca Delia Ramirez

Blanca D. Ramirez, a vibrant soul cherished by many, passed away peacefully, beside her daughter and son-in-law, on October 28, 2024, in Austin, Texas, at 83. Born on May 5, 1941, in Linares, Mexico, Blanca's journey through life was filled with resilience, joy, and an unwavering spirit that touched everyone she met.

Blanca's professional life began at Terry Farris before transitioning to Wells Fashion, where she worked for over 60 years. Her passion for socializing with customers became a hallmark of her career, as she served three generations of the Wells family and built meaningful relationships throughout her tenure. All who frequented the establishment sincerely appreciated her unwavering work ethic and connection with others.

Blanca's love for dancing began in childhood, as she participated in square dancing events while supporting her family as the eldest of six children. Her formal education ended in 10th grade when Blanca had to take on a more challenging role of helping her parents. The Ramirez family were migrant workers, spending half of the year up North. They worked in places like Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, and Oklahoma, learning the value of teamwork and making priceless memories as a family. These experiences shaped Blanca's outgoing and tenacious personality. As an adult, no challenge was too great. 

As a single mother, Blanca's dedication and love for her daughter were unwavering. She instilled in her the values of hard work and education, proudly seeing her daughter graduate from St. Edward’s University. This accomplishment was a significant highlight in Blanca's life, as she found great joy in nurturing her child's ambitions.

Upon retiring, Blanca embraced the 55+ community lifestyle, forming enduring friendships. Some of her closest friends were Janie, Bertha, Monica, Elida, Carmen and Susie. Whether heading to the island for lunches or gathering for celebrations, Blanca cherished her independence and continued to enjoy a lively independent social life until she was 82 years old. She then moved to Austin to live with her daughter and son-in-law for two years, where Blanca's infectious charm and warmth made her friends wherever she went. After Blanca moved to Austin to be with her daughter, she spoke to the ladies often. Together, they created countless memories filled with laughter and companionship.

She remained a true social butterfly, often delighting in celebrations, particularly on her birthday, which coincided with Cinco de Mayo. Her passion for dancing stayed with her throughout her life, and she joyfully participated in various dance outings with friends.

Her interests also included reading, and she amassed an extensive collection of books, with favorites such as Nora Roberts, Mary Higgins Clark, and James Patterson. Blanca's smiling demeanor and optimistic nature made her a beloved figure among her family and friends. She was often described as someone who never met a stranger, showcasing her genuine willingness to connect with others.

Blanca enjoyed volunteering at her daughter's elementary school and embraced life's adventures, traveling through iconic cities like Washington, D.C., Boston, New Orleans, Colorado Springs, Grand Forks, and Winnipeg. A treasured memory from her travels includes celebrating her 82nd birthday in Grand Forks with her siblings and daughter. Family gatherings and shared experiences were foundational to her persona, creating priceless memories that will be cherished by those she leaves behind.

Blanca's unwavering faith was evident throughout her life. She was an active member of San Martin for most of her life. After moving to Austin, she attended Mass at St. Edward's University Chapel. She will return to her childhood parish for a Celebration of Life and Mass at San Martin de Porres in Weslaco. 

Blanca D. Ramirez's memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who are grateful for the loving legacy she leaves behind. 

Blanca is preceded in death by her parents, Cayetano and Esperanza Ramirez, sister, Noelia Ramirez Salinas, and brother, Gilbert Ramirez. 

She is survived by her daughter, Idahlia Murray (Patrick); brother, Mario Ramirez (Florinda); sisters, Lupita Ramirez Gledhill and Hilda Garza (Joe); and nieces and nephews, Cathy Dawson (Lenord), Marc Ramirez (Rosalinda), Leo Leija(Tiffany), Crissy Leija, Robert T. Salinas(Amelia), Eric Ramirez(Christina Tejeda), and Stephany Garza(Chuck Arnold); great niece, Miliani Amelia Ramirez; great nephews, Elijah Dawson, Alec Salinas and Alister Salinas. 

A visitation will be held on November 13, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco, TX, followed by a prayer service at 7:00 PM. A Mass will occur on November 14, 2024, at 10:00 AM at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church, concluding with burial at Val Verde Memorial Gardens at 11:00 AM.

Blanca's vibrant spirit and treasured memories will forever resonate with those whose lives she touched.