Minerva Esparza

Donna- Minerva Esparza, a hardworking and dedicated woman, peacefully passed away on November 11, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at her home. Born on December 1, 1937, in Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon, Minerva's life story is about resilience, determination, and love.

From a young age, Minerva began working alongside her parents as a migrant worker; early exposure to hard work instilled a strong work ethic in her. Minerva's parents pulled her out of school to shield her from early romance. However, during those trying years in the fields, she met the love of her life, Ramon Esparza Sr., with whom she shared a lifelong journey.

Minerva's dedication to her family was unwavering. She always put them first and cherished every moment spent together. Minerva and her husband, Ramon, continued the family tradition of migrating half the year with their four boys. When they were back in Weslaco, the couple worked in the produce industry, Interstate Fruit and Vegetable Company, for most of their lives. The fruits and vegetables of the Esparza's labor were shipped worldwide. 

When the boys were grown, Minerva, Ramon, and their son moved to San Antonio, and all worked together at Play by Play. The wholesale outlet provided all of the stuffed animals for Disney World, and Minerva and her family could travel to Florida many times. Eventually, Minerva and Ramon returned home. Minerva spent her final happy years in  Donna but she continued to work as long as her health allowed. 

Despite working full-time, Minerva was a wonderful homemaker. She would rise early and have a hot breakfast ready when the family woke up. Minerva and Ramon worked hard and earned a modest income, but the boys always had a delicious homemade meal. 

While Minerva enjoyed being a "shop till you drop" kind of person, she also enjoyed indulging in outings to eat and watching her favorite shows; it was with her loved ones that she found true joy and fulfillment.

Despite not having a formal education, Minerva was self-taught with exceptional intelligence and practical wisdom. Her ability to adapt to any situation - no job was too big or small for her - was remarkable and inspired those around her.

Minerva was a woman of tremendous faith. Her Catholic beliefs and trips to the Virgin de San Juan drew Minerva closer to God with age. 

Minerva is preceded in death by her parents, Genaro and Guadalupe (Guajardo) Sanchez. 

She is survived by her beloved husband, Ramon Esparza Sr., whose love and companionship she cherished throughout their lives together. Minerva is also survived by her sons, Roland Esparza, Erasmo Esparza (Diana Vargas), Orlando Esparza, and Ramon Esparza Jr. (Brenda), grandchildren, Danielle Chambers (Eric), Deidre Esparza Pyle (Landon),  Martin “Harley” Vara, Roman Esparza, Ariana Esparza, Jeffrey Esparza, Joseph Esparza, Jonathan Gonzalez (Denise), Dylan Esparza, and Danika Esparza, and great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Onofre Gonzalez, Steven Gray, Julian and Amelia Chambers, and Liliana Pyle. 

Visitation and a life celebration will be at McCaleb Funeral Home at 900 W 4th St, Weslaco, TX 78596, on November 15, 2023, from 10:00 AM until 9:00 PM.