Paula Marines

Paula Marines, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024, at Knapp Medical Center. She was born on March 2, 1934, in Edcouch, TX, to Ventura and Clara (Garza) Perez. 

Paula was described as loving, caring, hardworking, and strong-willed, and her legacy shines through the memories she created with her family. She learned the value of hard work when she was young and worked in the fields. Soon, Paula could be a full-time homemaker, a perfect job for someone of Paula's character. Not only was Paula a natural nurturer, but She was also a great cook. Some favorites were her famous homemade tortillas, pancakes, enchiladas, burgers, pasta, and gorditas. Paula also had a passion for flowers and enjoyed surrounding herself with their beauty.

Family meant everything to Paula, especially her grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply. Every Sunday, she would prepare a grand meal to unite the family, creating cherished moments filled with laughter and love. Paula always made birthdays and holidays special, ensuring they were celebrated and surrounded by family and joy.

Besides her culinary skills, Paula was known for her love of dancing to 50's rock music. She treasured the moments shared with her family during weekend outings, family Sunday meals, and celebrations of all milestones. Paula's weekends were brighter when she enjoyed her favorite foods, went out for meals, indulged in sweet treats, and went on long car rides with her loved ones.

A devout Catholic, faith was at the core of Paula's being. She attended St. Joan of Arc Catholic school in her youth and continued her spiritual journey with unwavering dedication. Paula found solace in attending Sunday mass at San Martin in Weslaco. She often ventured out to San Juan Basilica and Guadalupe Church. Paula was also a prayer warrior. She prayed every night for each individual in her family and countless others. Paula's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and boundless generosity. Always ready to help others, she touched countless lives with her kindness and willingness to give selflessly. Her loving and nurturing nature endeared her to many.

Paula is preceded in death by her parents, Ventura Perez and Clara Garza Perez; her loving husband, Antonio Marines; her brothers Rogelio Perez and Reynaldo Perez, sister Dominga Ramirez; son-in-law Samuel Estevanes, grandson Jose G. Rodriguez III, and daughter Catarina Marines.

She is survived by her children, Blanca M. Rodriguez (Jose) and Clara M. Rodriguez (Jose G.), by her twin brother Federico Perez (Guadalupe), Ventura Perez, Jr. (Guadalupe), Blas Perez (Adela), Santos Esquivel (Jimmy), Aurora Ayala (Manuel), and Rudolfo Perez (Magdalena), grandchildren Samantha, Cassandra (Gabriel), Katarina, Samuel Jr., Paul, and Michelle, and great-grandchildren Nathan and Evan.

Paula's life will be honored and remembered during the following services: Visitation: August 15, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Holy Rosary at 7 p.m., at McCaleb Funeral Home; Mass on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at San Martin De Porres Catholic Church in Weslaco; and burial will follow at Highland Memorial Park. 

Serving as pallbearers will be Jose G. Rodriguez, Paul A. Rodriguez, Samuel Estevanes Jr., Jose Rodriguez, Gabriel Garcia, and Katarina E. Rodriguez.

Paula will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.