Tracy McAllister

Alamo: Tracy's courageous battle with breast cancer ended on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. She was surrounded by her loving family at home when she entered Eternal rest, where Tracy reunited with her mom, her grandma, and many other loved ones and friends.

Tracy was born on April 5, 1976, in McAllen, Texas, to Verne and Sharon Kay(Robinson) Vanderpool. Her confident and outgoing attitude was evident even as a child. Tracy participated in almost every sport offered throughout her youth and high school despite not having a competitive spirit.

After graduating from Weslaco High School, Tracy attended Texas A&M University, earning her Bachelor's Degree. Tracy taught in Weslaco and PSJA for many years. Most of the time in PSJA, Tracy was a Chemistry teacher. The students adored Tracy. Her charm and charisma would attract all students to her room. Tracy continued her Education and earned a Master's in Education from the University of Texas RGV. Tracy was then promoted to Administrator of the Science Department for the PSJA school district. Her commitment to nurturing young minds had a lasting impact on countless students.

Outside of her professional life, Tracy possessed a vibrant and creative soul. With a passion for interior design, Tracy could effortlessly transform any space into a masterpiece. She had an eye for color and detail that emanated from her fingertips through every painting stroke or piece of handmade jewelry she created. Tracy was known for hosting parties that were larger than life - gatherings filled with laughter, warmth, and joy. She was the first person you would choose when you wanted to go shopping because her talent could bring the most unique pieces together. Every fall, Tracy would celebrate her grandmother and others through a great gathering, where skull decorating, loteria, and pumpkin carving were essential.

In her leisure time, Tracy loved lighting candles while working on crossword puzzles or listening to books on Audible. Tracy was adventurous and fearless, traits that would fuel her passion for travel with her family. She traveled the country and the world. Tracy spent time in Greece, Mexico, and Puerto Rico and, most recently, took a mother-daughter trip to London, Paris, and Amsterdam. Tracy's travel created priceless memories for her husband, children, and best girlfriends. Back home, the beach was one of Tracy's favorite spots, where she found tranquility amongst the crashing waves while cherishing moments spent with family and friends.

Speaking of the beach, it was on a hot summer day in 2011 when Tracy's cousin, Wendy, insisted they stop at a small tavern named "Harleys" in Bayview. Tracy met her future husband, Jay McAllister, on July 6. They were married the following March and have spent the rest of their lives together.

Tracy had an appreciation for plants. Tracy's home was surrounded and filled with all sorts of plants. Most trips to the grocery store included a new green friend to add to the collection. Tracy's fondness for plants generated a love for nature, the outdoors, and birds. While Tracy was earning her Master's Degree, this enthusiasm prompted her to take classes in Ornithology. This knowledge allowed Tracy to be a well-versed bird watcher for the rest of her life.

Tracy began rescuing dogs and cats many years ago. She loved animals, and her compassionate heart was a magnet for strays. The family home included many of these animals, along with goats, chickens, and fish. This family tradition was passed down from her father to her, and now her children continue to care for animals as their mother did.

In 2015, Tracy was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Surviving cancer stands as one of Tracy's proudest accomplishments. She exhibited unwavering bravery and resilience throughout her battle, inspiring all fortunate to witness her journey. Tracy's fighting spirit reminds us to find strength within ourselves, even in adversity. Tracy continued to light up the mood throughout the years with her beautiful smile.

Most importantly, Tracy's courage came from her Lord and Savior. Tracy was very spiritual and was a Christian. She didn't attend one church. Tracy's love for people and making new friendships drew her to many denominations. The churches Tracy attended had a couple of things in common: faith and friendly people.

Tracy is preceded in death by her mom, Sharon Vanderpool.

She is survived by her loving husband, Jay McAllister, whose unwavering support and devotion were a source of great comfort during her illness. Tracy is also survived by her father, Verne Vanderpool; her children, Leo Sullivan Enloe, Ella Holland Enloe, and Griffin Ross McAllister; her brother, Scott Vanderpool, and his wife, Melissa; nephews

and nieces, Helen and Ashley Vanderpool and Julianne Alejandro; Brianna, Jodie, and Joey McAllister, and great nephew, Silas.

Visitation will be held on September 19, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life at 6 p.m. at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco. The warmth and support of friends and loved ones during these events would be greatly appreciated.