Anita Barrera Mendez

Ms. Anita Barrera "Anna" Mendez, age 82, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Born on June 17, 1943, also in Corpus Christi, she lived a life marked by creativity, faith, generosity, and deep devotion to her family and community.
Anita's early years were shaped by a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. She pursued her passion for floral design by taking flower arrangement classes and eventually opened a floral shop within the Decorators Gallery. Her talents and business savvy led her to co-own Western Corral in the Padre Staples Mall and later establish her own boutique called Three Dollar Earrings. These ventures reflected her flair for style and her love of connecting with people.
Later in life, Anita joined the team at Dillard's department store, where she worked diligently until her retirement. Her dedication and warmth left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.
Anita was deeply devoted to her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Alma Ruiz (John) of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Andrea Hernandez of Corpus Christi, Texas. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jessica Anna Ruiz of Corpus Christi, Texas; Jasmine Josie Ruiz of San Marcos, Texas; and John Wesley Ruiz Jr. of Corpus Christi, Texas. Her sisters Amelia "Amy" Mendez of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Angelita" Angie" Erst of Lake Mary, Florida also survive her. She also has numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her presence in their lives.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bertha Barrera Mendez and Jesus G. Mendez of Corpus Christi; Tx., her brothers Lino Mendez (Rosario), Albert Mendez, Arturo Mendez (Ana); her sister Adrianna Elgas; and most recently by her brother Jesus Mendez (Nancy) of California on July 5, 2025.
Anita's life was rich with interests that brought joy to those around her. She had a passion for decorating and crafting during the holidays-her home always reflected the warmth of the season. She loved entertaining guests with delicious meals, especially her famous enchiladas, and Estate sales were among her favorite pastimes; she delighted in finding hidden treasures and sharing them with others.
Her spiritual journey was deeply personal and ever-evolving. Though born into the Catholic faith, Anita explored various paths throughout her life. Eventually, she embraced a unique spiritual identity as a Messianic Jew. Regardless of denomination, Anita's faith remained steadfast-she was known as an avid prayer warrior who opened her home weekly for prayer meetings and offered spiritual support to many.
Anita's generosity extended far beyond material gifts-she gave freely of her time, prayers, wisdom, and love. She cared for her aging parents with compassion and helped raise her grandchildren with unwavering devotion. Her home was often filled with laughter, shared meals, heartfelt conversations, and prayerful gatherings.
In addition to being a caregiver and spiritual guide to many, Anita enjoyed dancing in her younger years and traveling when she could-always embracing life with enthusiasm and grace.
Anita Barrera "Anna" Mendez leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, faith, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and joy to those who remember the light she brought into their lives.
A Rosary will be held on July 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church 710 S. 19th St. A Memorial Mass will be held on July 16, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church 710 S. 19th St.