Lucia Ruiz

Lucia Ruiz (née Lara), age 85, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, in Porter, Texas, surrounded by family. Born on May 6, 1940, in Durango, Mexico, Lucia lived a full and vibrant life marked by devotion to her family, a generous spirit, and an enduring resilience that touched all who knew her.

Lucia was one of ten siblings and is survived by her beloved sister Theodora Millan of El Paso, Texas. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband Frank Ruiz, who passed on August 16, 1998. Together they shared a deep bond and partnership throughout his service in the U.S. Army and beyond. She also joins her parents and eight of her nine siblings, plus countless others dear to her, in eternal rest.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Lucia leaves behind a legacy of love through her four daughters and their families: Catalina Piseno and spouse Art Piseno, along with grandchildren Brendan Piseno and his wife Susie Piseno, and Taylor Piseno; Rafaela Wilhite and spouse Kevin Wilhite with grandson Kirby Wilhite; Diana Ruiz and spouse Laura Stille; Yolanda McPheeters and spouse Daniel McPheeters with their children Adam McPheeters and his wife Kelli McPheeters-who blessed Lucia with great-grandsons Warren, Cooper, and Casen McPheeters-Sean McPheeters and his wife Flor McPheeters; Ethan McPheeters with his wife Jackie McPheeters; and daughter of her heart, Linda McAllister with her son Gage McAllister.

Lucia's home was always filled with warmth-not only from the people she loved but also from the many fur babies who adored her: Sam, Luna & Dutch, Sora, Chief & Terra, Paul & Lil' Bit and Wyatt & Doc. She was surely greeted with love and kisses by the fur babies that awaited her in heaven: Chico, Monty, Jezebel & Pearl, April, Riley & Turner and Whiskey. Her love and compassion extended to all creatures great and small.

She had a remarkable talent for knitting, creating countless blankets, scarves, and other handmade treasures that now serve as tangible memories for those she loved. Her hands were rarely still-whether playing Bingo or Lotteria with friends or enjoying spirited games of Sequence with family. She delighted in traveling and especially enjoyed trips to the casino where penny slot machines brought simple joy.

Lucia found incredible peace sitting at the water's edge on the beach, searching for seashells. She had a passion for action movies and especially treasured movie marathons shared with her granddaughter Taylor. Her green thumb brought life to every corner of her home garden-a lush sanctuary she cultivated at the residence she shared with her youngest daughter Yolanda. Birds flocked to her garden daily under her watchful eye while squirrels mischievously helped themselves to the birdseed-much to Lucia's amused tolerance.

Her strength was matched only by her wit. Lucia was known for her sharp humor, unwavering generosity, and boundless love for those around her. She gave freely of herself-her time, energy, wisdom-and asked for little in return. Her presence was a source of comfort; her absence will be deeply felt.

May Lucia's memory bring peace to those who mourn her passing and joy to those who celebrate the beautiful life she lived.