Eliza Velasquez, age 93, of Odessa, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 17, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on February 20, 1932, in Barstow, Texas, to her late parents, Eva Beller and Carmen Carrasco.

A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Eliza was preceded in death by her daughter Joanne; her brother, Augustine Gutierrez; and her great-grandson, Aidan Velasquez. She is survived by her sister, Marcela Tarin.

Eliza raised her family in Fort Stockton, Texas, where she worked as a bookkeeper and served as a dedicated caretaker at the local nursing home. Her life was marked by love, hard work, and an unwavering loyalty to her family. She is survived by her ten children: Adelina Hinojos and her husband Jack; Belinda Mendoza; Mary and her husband Freddy Martinez; Betty Rodriguez; Patricia and her husband Richard Martinez; Steve Velasquez; Mario Velasquez; Ismael Velasquez and his wife Cindy; Everiano Velasquez and his partner Terry; and Evan Velasquez.

Eliza was blessed with many grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life: Erika and her husband Ivan Gomez, Chez Velasquez, Christopher and his wife Haley Velasquez, Paul and his wife Audra Hinojos, Cain Hinojos, Elisa Marie Velasquez, Jacinda and her husband Jonathan Walker, Chasy and her husband Kody Rowe, Zachary Velasquez, Dylan Velasquez, Kaylee Gibson, Danny Mendoza, Sandra and her husband Denny Islas, Nancy Robles, Michael Chon Martinez, and Charlene and her husband Keith Monger.

Her family tree grew strong and wide, branching out through 40 great-grandchildren, 21 great-greatgrandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was a woman of quiet strength who navigated life’s challenges with grace and determination. From her stories to her infectious laughter, every moment spent with her was a gift.

Eliza cherished her time with her sister Marcela, adored her grandchildren, and found great joy in dancing and visiting the casino. Her loyalty, strong and steadfast, defined her character. Above all else, she was a devoted mother and grandmother, and her love will echo through generations.

Services for Eliza was held in Fort Stockton, Texas. Visitation tookplace on Thursday, July 24, at Heritage Funeral Home, with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, July 25, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was laid to rest in Barstow, Texas, with a reception that followed.

Eliza’s life was a beautiful example of love, family, and resilience. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.