Monica Mata

Monica Mata, a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and community member, passed away peacefully at her home in Weslaco. She was born in Ganado, Texas, on March 26, 1936, and left this world on June 18, 2024. Monica's life was a testament to hard work, faith, and a perpetual love for her family.

Growing up in Ganado with nine siblings, Monica learned the value of dedication and responsibility at a young age. She helped her parents and worked in the fields instead of pursuing formal education. When the family moved to Weslaco during childhood, they became active members of the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. Monica's commitment to her faith was unwavering, as she ensured her siblings received their sacraments on time. She also worked at Keno Cafe. 

In her early twenties, Monica met the love of her life, Adolfo G. Mata, at one of the neighborhood dances at the Plazita. They embarked on a beautiful journey together and were married on April 26, 1959. Monica and Adolfo started their family quickly and as their family expanded, Adolfo decided it was time to have a more stable career. Adolfo went to work for McManus Produce and later for the City of Weslaco. Monica's professional journey led her to the Hidalgo County Health Department, where she started as a custodian and retired in March 1998 as a clinical aide involved with administration. Her hard work extended beyond the office, as she also served as the St. Vincent de Paul Committee secretary at St. Joan of Arc Church. While working full-time, Monica was the primary caregiver to their growing family of eight children. 

Passionate about family gatherings, Monica created lasting memories through her culinary skills - and her kitchen atmosphere was constantly filled with aromas of porridges of avena (Mexican oatmeal), rice, chocolate, and freshly baked pies—pumpkin, pecan, apple, and cherry. After working full-time, Monica always came home to prepare a delicious meal for the family. 

Besides volunteering at church, working, and caring for her home and children, Monica was determined to pursue the education she couldn't obtain. In 1978, the same year her oldest daughter Maria graduated from Weslaco High School, Monica earned her GED. 

Monica's unconditional love encompassed not only her immediate family but also extended to her attendance at every sports event or performance involving her grandchildren. Her unwavering support for them was evident through her attendance at football games wearing purple, representing her grandchildren and the Weslaco Panthers.

Among Monica's proudest accomplishments was her devout faith, which guided every aspect of her life. She prayed diligently and ensured that her immediate family and extended relatives received their sacraments as per tradition. Her active involvement in Medalla Milagrosa at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church showcased her willingness to serve within and beyond the church community. Christmas posadas and Holy Days of Obligation were sacred. Monica was active in women's retreats and countless other ministries. Every time Monica attended Mass, often several times a week, she wore a veil to show reverence and respect. 

Monica Mata's legacy will live on through the lives she touched profoundly with love, faithfulness, and strength—a true matriarch whose presence will be dearly missed but forever treasured by those blessed to have known her. Monica was a beautiful soul with a heart of gold. 

Monica was preceded in death by her parents, Adolfo and Maria T. Perez; her beloved husband, Adolfo G. Mata, who passed away in 1994; their son, Juan P. Mata; their daughter, Ana D. Mata; her mother and father-in-law, Juan and Adela Mata; her siblings: Hilario Perez, Cornelio Perez, Johnny Perez; and her sisters-in-law, Maria and Ofelia Perez. 

She is survived by her children, Maria D. Cantu (Orlando), Arnoldo A. Mata (Anne), Lino A. Mata (Letty+), Alicia I. Mata-Garza (Javier), Emilia A. De Leon (Merardo), and Luisa E. Riemersma (Jeff), grandchildren, Daniel A., Esteban A., Dustin K., Samuel A. (Brittanie), and Gabriel R. Mata, Anyssa Cantu and Analissa Cantu Severn (Henry), Vanessa, Kevin, and Michael Trevino, Monica E. and Adolfo A. (Candice) Mata, Isaac X., Adrian I. and Israel A. De Leon, Joshua L. and Lia E. Riemersma, numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Services honoring Monica's life will be held at McCaleb Funeral Home. Visitation will be on Monday, June 24, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a Holy Rosary at 7 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at St Joan of Arc Catholic Church on Tuesday, June 25, at 1 p.m., with burial after that at Highland Memorial Park.

Monica Mata's legacy will live on through the lives she touched profoundly with love, faithfulness, and strength—a true matriarch whose presence will be dearly missed but forever treasured by those blessed to have known her.

Rest in peace, Monica Mata. Your selfless love and unwavering commitment to your family and community have left an indelible mark on this world.