Alicia Garza

MCALLEN - Alicia Garza, 86, entered eternal rest on Saturday, July 6, 2024. Mrs. Garza is preceded in death by her parents, Arturo De La Garza Gonzalez and Lilia Garcia Gracia; 3 siblings, Zoila, Jorge and Raul; 2 grandchildren, Amber and Carlos.

In the year 1955, within the bustling corridors of a hospital, two hearts connected in a serendipitous encounter. Alicia, a compassionate nurse’s aide, met Teofilo, whose love for her was immediate and unwavering. Their romance blossomed swiftly, and by January of 1956, Teofilo had enlisted family members to seek Alicia’s hand in marriage. United in love, they embarked on a lifelong journey together, marrying two months later and soon after, setting roots in Indiana. 

For 35 years, Indiana was home, where Alicia’s love for sports flourished. She found joy in the crack of a bat and the cheer of the crowd, her passion for the Chicago Cubs echoing the fond memories of listening to Los Sultanes de Monterrey during her youth. The thrill of the game extended to the icy rinks where the Chicago Blackhawks skated and the gridirons where the Chicago Bears clashed. In 1957, Alicia embraced motherhood, a role she cherished until her last child’s birth in 1972. Her family grew, blessed with grandchildren who filled her life with laughter and love. 

Upon Teofilo’s retirement, Texas welcomed Alicia with open arms, and she, in turn, embraced the Dallas Cowboys, her new beacon in the world of sports. Her children’s playful jests of betrayal to the Bears were met with her firm assertion —she simply couldn’t resist the charm of her newfound team. As time passed, her family continued to blossom, welcoming great-grandchildren into the fold, each new life a testament to the enduring love and legacy she fostered. 

Alicia’s heart knew no bounds; her love extended to every grandchild and great grandchild, each cradled in her nurturing embrace. Her soul was a beacon of kindness, drawing people from all walks of life into her circle of warmth. Known affectionately as “Lita” by those closest to her, Alicia’s presence was a gift to all who knew her. 

Among the many joys in her life, Alicia had the fortune to witness the Chicago Cubs win the World Series on November 2, 2016, a historic moment that ended a 108-year wait for the team’s fans. This victory was a cherished memory that brought immense joy to her and many others. She continued to follow the Cubs with unwavering support until her very last day, her spirit as tenacious and hopeful as the team she loved. 

Today, we bid farewell to a woman whose life was a tapestry of love, care, and unwavering devotion. Alicia’s legacy is etched in the hearts she touched and the lives she enriched. Though she will be profoundly missed, we find solace in knowing she rests free from pain and dwells in HIS kingdom, her spirit forever intertwined with the love she so freely gave. 

Mrs. Garza is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Teofilo Garza; 7 children, Jeffrey (Rocio) Garza, Albert (Barb) Garza, Jimmy (Tammy) Garza, Richard Garza, Gloria Alicia Garza, Mario E. (Cynthia) Garza and Johnny A. Garza; 40+ grandchildren and great grandchildren; 4 siblings, Graciela, Lucila, Herlinda and Lilia; numerous family and friends.

Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. rosary, Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Legacy Chapels 4610 South Jackson Road in Edinburg. 

Funeral services are under the direction of Legacy Chapels in Edinburg.