Maria Elva Rivera

Maria Elva Rivera, age 81, entered into eternal rest on July 15, 2025, in Olmito, Texas. A beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mary lived a life devoted to faith, family, and kindness. She is survived by her loving children: Lupe Rivera of Robstown, Texas; Pete Rivera and his wife Laura of McKinney, Texas; and Fred Rivera and his wife Vivian of Dallas, Texas. Cherished by all who knew her, Maria was also a proud grandmother to Samantha Coronado (Fred), Christina Rivera, Emilee Rivera, and Felix Rivera; and a treasured step grandmother to Magdalene Villarreal, Morningstar Van Slyke, Martha Van Slyke, Jerome Van Slyke, Josephine Van Slyke, Damian Van Slyke, as well as her three step great grandchildren; Lucia, Selena, and Stella. Maria was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Urbano Rivera; her parents, Pedro and Adelina Rocha; her sister, Emma Jimenez; her brother, Joe Rocha; and her step-grandson, John Van Slyke. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Maria's life during visitation on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m., at Rudy Garza Palms Funeral Home in La Feria, Texas. A chapel service will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. with Deacon Joe Torres as celebrant at the Rudy Garza Palms Chapel of Peace in La Feria, with interment to follow at Heavenly Grace Cemetery in La Feria. Pallbearers will be Lupe Rivera, Pete Rivera, Fred Rivera, Ralph Rivera, Al Salazar, and Danny Jimenez. The Rivera family extends heartfelt gratitude to their dear friends and neighbors, Al and Esmeralda Salazar, for the unwavering love, care, and support they provided to Mary throughout her final days. Their compassion and presence were a blessing and a comfort, and they will always be considered part of the family. Maria's warmth, resilience, and deep love for her family will be remembered always. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, and unconditional love. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Rudy Garza Palms Funeral Home in La Feria, Texas.