Maria Veliz

Maria Del Carmen Veliz (Carmen) (nee Juarez) left this earth to be with our Lord on April 23, 2020. Carmen was born November 18, 1940 in Villa de La Paz, S.L.P., MX and came to Mercedes, TX as a young child where she was raised. She was the daughter of Antonio and Maria Del Jesus (Limon) Juarez. She married Margarito Veliz in Aurora, IL on November 9, 1959. Carmen dedicated her life to caring for her husband, eleven children, and mother-in-law. Carmen also spent many years babysitting the neighborhood children and her grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, mother-in-law Ana Lopez, sister in infancy, Peta Juarez, two grandchildren, Johnny Szilage and Roberto Velez, Jr., one great grandchild Stergios Jason Liakas, and four glory grandbabies.

Carmen is survived by her husband of 61 years, Margarito Veliz, and children Angel (Carolyn), Gabe (Jackie), John (Janice), Anita (Jose Cruz), Tony (Kathy), Herman, Cristina (Roy McIntosh), Margarito (Lito) Jr. (Tracie), Pedro (Deanna), Sylvia (Adam Berry), and Roberto (Michelle). Carmen is also survived by 37 grandchildren and many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, totaling over 100. She is also survived by her sisters; Maria (Israel) Montano, Margarita Santana, Maria J. Romero, Rosa Maria Tamez, Maria D. Solis, and San Juanita Juarez. 

The greatest memories of Carmen by her children and grandchildren are the family gatherings. Carmen always opened her home to the family and friends for holidays and summer cookouts. The smell of fresh cooked tortillas, tamales, rice and beans filled her home as family crowded together to laugh at stories of old and jokes as brothers and sisters teased each other. Carmen showed love and joy for her children and their spouses and desired that they all maintain love and unity within the family. Her concern for others showed her generosity, and she will be greatly missed.

Due to the current restrictions, a private family service will be held at Dieterle Memorial Home to honor the life of Carmen. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome.