Maria L. Banda

Maria Luz “Mary” (Aguilar) Banda was born on June 4, 1946, in San Antonio, Texas, to Paula Rocha Aguilar and Margarito Aguilar. Tragically, her mother passed away when Mary was only nine months old, and she was lovingly raised by her maternal grandmother, Sebastiana Rocha Estrada.

Mary graduated from high school in 1964 and was proud to be part of the first graduating class of the newly built McHi campus.

In 1970, Mary began her remarkable 46-year career with the State of Texas. Through dedication and perseverance, she rose through the ranks, serving as a clerk, secretary, legal secretary, court liaison, and ultimately as a Child Support Investigator—a position typically requiring a college degree. Her extensive knowledge and experience made her a trusted trainer and mentor to many new investigators.

While she deeply valued her career, Mary worked tirelessly to provide for her daughters. In addition to her full-time position with the state, she worked evenings and weekends at Kroger Supermarket. After long days at her 8-to-5 job, she would return home, quickly prepare, and head out again to work late into the night. She continued this routine until Kroger closed, after which she took on a similar role at Carl’s Supermarket. In 1991, Mary chose to step away from her second job and focus solely on her beloved work with the State of Texas.

With more time available, Mary dedicated herself to serving her community. She volunteered with United Way, Mujeres Unidas, Comfort House, and the American Red Cross. She also served on the boards of the American Red Cross, the Texas State Employees Union, and the Texas Public Employees Association.

In 2016, after an extraordinary 46 years of service, Mary made the difficult decision to retire from the State of Texas Child Support Division to devote more time to her daughters and grandchildren.

Mary is survived by her two daughters, Linda A. Duty (David) and Sandra D. Rodriguez. The lights of her life were her grandchildren: Bianca M. Rodriguez (Manny Cepeda), Victoria D. Rodriguez, Dominic Rodriguez, Dustin L. Duty, and Priscilla D. Rodriguez, and one brand new great-grandchild, Ezekiel M. Cepeda.

Throughout her career, Mary touched the lives of hundreds of mothers and children. She also formed lasting bonds with her coworkers, both in the office and at the supermarkets, many of whom became like family. She was a strong and determined woman who could be firm when needed, but who loved deeply and supported those around her with unwavering devotion. All who knew her were truly blessed by her love.

 Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. A second visitation will take place on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by a religious service at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in McAllen.

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