Criselda Antonia Rios

Weslaco-

Criselda Antonia Rios, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the age of 71, at Rio Grande Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 4, 1953, in Weslaco, Texas, Criselda lived a life of love, compassion, and service. A dedicated nurse for Hidalgo County, she touched countless lives with her unwavering care and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on her family, her community, and all those fortunate to know her.

Criselda was the embodiment of kindness and generosity. A graduate of Weslaco High School, she further pursued education in nursing, a path that showcased her innate desire to nurture and support others. Her role as a caretaker was not only limited to her profession but extended into her personal life. She was known for her big heart. Criselda was the primary caregiver to her Mother and her son. She was a comforter and helper to her beloved nephews and nieces. Criselda was everyone’s best friend, always there with a reassuring smile, open arms, and a listening ear. Criselda was also the first to offer assistance when a financial crisis arose, family, friends, or strangers. 

Criselda’s warmth shone brightest in her kitchen, where home cooking became one of her greatest passions. Family gatherings were made special by her famous rice, menudo, and barbecues, with the comforting aromas of her dishes blending perfectly with laughter and shared stories. Her cooking was more than just a meal—it was an expression of her love and care, a way to bring her family together and create cherished memories.

Hosting dinners was Criselda’s way of celebrating her deep commitment to those she held dear. Criselda also enjoyed dining out. Her commitment to spending quality time around the table created priceless memories and stories that would only be shared over a warm meal. 

Most people who knew Criselda would describe her as a carefree socialite. However, her children knew that she was strict and demanding at times. She wanted the best for her children and didn’t settle for anything less. Her frequent phone calls will be deeply missed by all. She would often just chat away or check in to hear about her children's day and share the latest news, reminding everyone of her unwavering love and support.

In her leisure time, Criselda enjoyed indulging in life's simple pleasures. Shopping, whether online or in person, delighted her, as did trips to the beach, where she admired and enjoyed God’s gift of beauty and tranquility. Crisleda was a sports enthusiast. She loved watching games with her son, passionately rooting for her favorite teams, the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Astros. Many cherished memories were created at several opening-season games of the Astros, memories that her family will hold dear forever.

Criselda’s faith was a cornerstone of her existence; she was a devout Catholic, instilling hope and love in all those around her. Growing up in Weslaco, she cultivated deep roots in her community, where her caring spirit and beautiful soul touched countless lives.

She will be remembered not only for her outstanding contributions as a nurse but also for her unwavering support and love for her family and friends. Criselda leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness that will forever resonate within the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her.

Criselda is preceded in death by her parents, Casimiro and Jesusa (Cantu) Rios; her husband, Juan Antonio Robledo; her daughter-in-law, Alida Rios; her siblings, Pedro Rios, Felipe Rios (Mary), and Rosie Avila (Daniel). 

She is survived by her daughters, Marisa Rios (Jesus Salas) and Rhonda Henry (Sean); her sons, Michael Rios (Alida+), Mark Anthony Robledo, and John Robledo (Jamie); her brothers, Oscar Rios (Beatriz+), Homer Rios (Cristela), Guadalupe Gonzalez (Arturo), and Alicia Mendez, sister-in-law Mary Rios, five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Services to honor and celebrate Criselda's life will be held at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco. Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 1 PM to 9 PM, with a Holy Rosary at 7 PM. A Mass will be celebrated on Monday, January 27, 2025, at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church at 10 AM. Criselda will be laid to rest at Weslaco City Cemetery at 11 AM.

We will remember Criselda by imitating her spirit of love, generosity, and care for others. Her light may have dimmed, but her impact will continue illuminating our lives.