Dora Ornelas

Dora Ornelas, 97, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at her home in Gonzales, Texas, surrounded by her loving family. Born Dora Lairon on February 2, 1928, in Beeville, Texas, to Daniel Lairon Sr. and Alejandra Benavides, Dora dedicated many years as a nurse's assistant at Holmes Hospital in Gonzales. She was known for her compassionate nature and unwavering commitment to her patients, family, and friends. On July 4, 1950, Dora married Leon Ornelas Sr., and together they created a warm, loving, and nurturing home. A devoted member of the Catholic Church, Dora was a passionate reader and an active volunteer. Her extensive volunteer work included serving with Girl Scout Leaders, Saint Vincent De Paul, Eucharistic Ministry, ACTS, and the Cursillo Movement. Her servant heart also guided her to taking care of all of her family, more specifically her mother until she passed at the age of 102. Dora's strong Catholic faith was a guiding force throughout her life, touching countless hearts. Many in her community turned to her as a prayer warrior in times of crisis, and she instilled a deep-rooted faith in her children and grandchildren. Her vibrant sense of humor, kindness, and strength left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She took excellent care of her 102 year old mother and her handicapped brother. Dora had the honor of being Godmother to many people throughout her life who have also felt her immense love, support and guidance.
Dora is survived by her daughters, Hope McHaney (David) of Seguin, Texas, Mary Amaya (Ruben) of Missouri City, Texas, Catherine Leal (Allen) of Georgetown, Texas, Doris Zambrano (Carney) of Gonzales, Texas, Veronica Cleveland (Johnathan) of Gonzales, Texas, and Cinnamon Ornelas of Pflugerville, Texas; and her sons, Lupe Ornelas of Gonzales, Texas, Jesse McDougal of Las Vegas, Nevada, Leon Ornelas Jr. (Lillie) of Kansas, Leroy Ornelas (Chris) of Oklahoma, and David Ornelas (Lydia) of San Antonio, Texas. She also leaves behind 29 cherished grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, 13 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her best friend, Donnirose Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Josefa Longoria, Daniel Lairon Jr., Dionicio Lairon, Ramona Montes, and Joe Fuentes; her husband, Leon Ornelas Sr.; her son, Lee Ornelas; and her great-great-grandson, Christopher Ornelas. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Seydler Hill Funeral Home in Gonzales, Texas, with the Holy Rosary to follow. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. James Catholic Church, with Fr. Jason Martini as the celebrant. Interment will immediately follow at St. James Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers will be her beloved grandsons: Phil Leal, Allen McHaney, Jodie Amaya, Ron Romero, Joey Ornelas, Johnathan Granger, Eric Ornelas, and Patrick Pierpont. Honorary pallbearers are Sean Zambrano, Jeremy Ornelas, Javier Ornelas, Javier Garcia Sr. and Noel Ramos.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the St. James Catholic Church Building Fund. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Leticia Ramirez, Nurse Sherry, Nurse Keri, Ashley Garcia, and the Heart to Heart Hospice Chaplains for their compassionate support during this time.
Dora's warmth, wisdom, and laughter will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. "Well done, good and faithful servant!" Matthew 25:23