ZAPATA, TX---On the evening of January 20th, 2024, our gentle mother, Celia M. Villarreal, was called to her rest. Known for her patience, tenderness, and sweet disposition, "Mrs. Villarreal" was an exceptional teacher greatly loved by the three generations of students she taught at Zapata Elementary School. Celia was a woman of deep faith and constant prayer who cherished her family, friends, and community. Gifted with an incredibly generous heart, she supported many charities and gave of her time, treasure, and talents with joy and kindness. Her smile and her sweetness were infectious.

María Celia Martinez was born in Laredo in May 27th, 1932 into two of the pioneering families of Zapata County. Her parents were Cristobal Manuel Martinez and Amada Guadalupe Ramirez. She had three younger siblings whom she dearly loved: Blas M. (Rosina) Martinez, Berta (Alfredo) Garza, and David I. (Beatriz) Martinez. Educated in all-girl Catholic schools, Celia graduated from Ursuline Academy in 1950 and from Incarnate Word College in 1954. She attended only one public summer school class where she met her high school sweetheart and beloved husband, the late Sheriff Gilberto Villarreal. Celia's life was rich and full. She was born and raised in Laredo and enjoyed spending time in the family's farms and ranches. Alongside her husband, she raised six children: Gilberto Villarreal Jr., Linda Lucila Villarreal, Dr. Cynthia Villarreal Rodriguez, Amada Villarreal Garza, John (Juan Antonio) Villarreal, and David Mario Villarreal. Celia leaves behind fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren whom she adored. She will always be missed, and the memory of her love and her laughter will live forever in our hearts.

Funeral services for Celia M. Villarreal will be held at the Rose Garden Funeral Home in Zapata, Texas. Visiting hours will be from 5:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, January 25th with the rosary being recited at 7 p.m. and on Friday morning from 8:00 to 9:30. The funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes in Zapata at 10:00 a.m. After mass, the family will depart in procession to the Laredo Catholic Cemetery for her burial. Our family invites all our friends and relatives to join us in the final rites and celebration of life for our beloved mother, Celia M. Villarreal.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Zapata, Texas, Alzheimer's Association or any foundation of your choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rose Garden Funeral Home Daniel A. Gonzalez, Funeral Director, 2102 N. US HWY 83 Zapata, Texas.