Maria Anita Leal

Maria Anita Reyna Leal, 84, of Harlingen, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

Born and raised in Harlingen, Anita dedicated her life to her family, faith, and community.

Anita is preceded in death by her parents Jose and Manuela Reyna; her husband, Ramon Leal; her son, Ramiro Leal; her brothers, Joe Reyna and Henry Reyna, and her sister, Tiny Underwood.

She is survived by her children, Rolando Leal (Robin), Romeo Leal (Nancy); her brothers; Ramiro Reyna (Eliza), Jesse Reyna (Lollie); sister; Lupe Reyna, 25 grandchildren and 33 great- grandchildren. As well as many nieces and nephews whom she cherished and loved dearly.

Anita was employed by JCPenney as a Supervisor where she was admired for her leadership skills and dedication to the company and retired after 30 years of service.

Anita’s talents were many, she served at her church, community volunteer, and loved arts and crafts. She was known for the beautiful crosses she created and shared with others as a symbol of love and faith.

She held a deep appreciation for the friendship she shared with her Chic-fil-A buddy; Matthew Delgado.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to her brother, Jesse; sister-in-law, Lollie; sister and cousin, Sefie; and her neighbor, Lorraine. They would also like to express their sincere appreciation to the medical staff at Harlingen Nursing and Rehabilitation, as well as to all family and friends, for their selflessness and unwavering support during this most challenging time in Anita’s care.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Buck Ashcraft San Benito Funeral Home. A prayer service will begin at 7 o’clock Tuesday evening. Funeral service will take place on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Following the service, Anita will be laid to rest at Mont Meta Memorial Park.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Bobby Rodriguez, Riley Leal, Cruz Leal, Luis Leal, Robert Leal, Joshua Leal, Dario Eloy Sanchez Jr. and Jaime M. Vera. Honorary pallbearers will be Matthew Delgado and Risa Leal.