It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Jovita Vela Guzman, a cherished mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She left us on May 6, 2025. Jovita was born on December 25, 1944 in Rio Grande, Starr County, Texas, but moved at the young age of 5, to Tivoli, Texas, Jovita was a remarkable woman whose love knew no bounds and whose spirit will forever resonate within our hearts. She loved the outdoors and found an immense joy in fishing. Her adventurous spirit, jokes, (especially about tequila) inspired all of us to appreciate the simple joys and to always find laughter in every moment.
She is preceded in death by her parents Pedro and Maria Vela, and sister Consuelo (Connie) Sanchez. She is survived by her husband of 30 years Augustin Guzman Sr. whose memory she cherished deeply also surviving her are two loving sisters, Dora Garza and Mary Salinas (Tommy) and one brother Pete Vela (Minnie)
As a devoted mother and stepmother, Jovita embraced her role in our blended family with grace and warmth. She was the guiding light for her children, Patsy Cortez (Freddie), Eddie Hernandez (Esther) Marcus Dominguez (Nicole), Freddie Dominguez (Serina), Willie Dominguez (Jennifer) and her cherished stepchildren, Augustin Guzman Jr. (Loretta), Rachel Canales (Oscar) Christina Guzman, Rene Guzman (Claudia), Maricella Ramirez (Gus), and †Ernest Guzman Jovita created a nurturing home for all that came through her door. She filled her home with laughter, understanding and unconditional love.
Her legacy extends to her 19 beloved grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 14 step grandchildren, 28 step great grandchildren, and 4 step great-great grandchildren all of whom brought immense joy to her life. Jovita loved all the time spent with them, sharing stories, wisdom and creating precious memories that will last a lifetime. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Jovita was a devout Catholic who taught catechism and was very involved in the Catholic Church as a Cursillista. She participated in numerous retreats, sharing her love for God and inspiring others through her commitment to her faith.
A celebration of Jovita’s life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, beginning with visitation at 8:00 am, Rosary at 9:00 am, mass to follow and internment at Tivoli cemetery thereafter. The services will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, in Tivoli, Texas.
Honorary Pallbearers will be her Grandsons, Carlos Cortez, Lucas Hernandez, Gustavo Jesus Ramirez, Dylan Guzman, Jacob Luck, Isaac Dominguez, Ernest Guzman Jr., Andrew Guzman, Patrick Dominguez, †Lorenzo Morin III