Paula Hernandez Celedonio

Paula Hernandez Celedonio, born on June 26, 1951, in Navasota, Texas, departed this world on November 1, 2025. She was cherished as a devoted housewife and an extraordinary matriarch, whose warmth and love extended far beyond her immediate family. Growing up in Elsa, Texas, Paula was the daughter of Luz and Olivia Hernandez, who instilled in her a deep sense of family and compassion.

On May 3, 1969, she married Juan Francisco Celedonio, with whom she created a loving home filled with laughter and support. Together, they nurtured a vibrant family that blossomed under her guidance. Paula's legacy is carried on by her loving husband, Juan, and their beloved children: Norma DeLaPena, Juan Francisco Celedonio Jr., Juan Carlos Celedonio, Guadalupe Celedonio, Maria DeLaCruz Celedonio, and Cynthia Celedonio. Her devotion as a mother transcended into her role as a grandmother to many precious grandchildren, including Elisabeth DeLaPena, Rolando DeLaPena Jr., Dy’Shaun Tyrese Williams, Christina Celedonio, Erika Sydney Nguyen, Brittany Nicole Brittian, Mykah Lee Austin, Frances Aaliyah Austin, Jenny Stephanie Hernandez, Kayla Marie Hernandez, Eliseo Friebe, Alyssa Nicole Maldonado, Melanie Giselle Maldonado, Jeremiah Jay Maldonado, Josiah Ray Maldonado, Jade Marilyn Williams, Lorenzo Monjarraz Jr., Isabella Noemi Martinez, Olivia Lizette Martinez, Mya Elizabeth Contreras, Noah Li’Angelo Nguyen, Eoane Ryan Nguyen, Keanu Bryant Nguyen, Laela Nicole Bolden, Serenity Nicole Bolden, Seth Daniel Bolden Jr., and Jacob Cabrera. Paula delighted in cooking, especially during holidays, where she made tamales with her grandchildren each Christmas, crafting traditions that will be cherished in family memories for generations to come.

Paula maintained strong ties to her Christian faith, which served as a foundation throughout her life. Her love for family was evident in her many hobbies, particularly her passion for cooking and spending sunny days at the beach with loved ones. She was an inspiration to all who knew her, exemplifying the values of kindness, nurturing, and togetherness.

She is preceded in death by her beloved family members, including her father, Luz Hernandez Jr., and siblings Estre Hernandez, Olga Hernandez, and Elena Hernandez, as well as Telico Hernandez, who have all left an indelible mark on her life.

Visitation will be held on November 6, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Chism-Smith Funeral Home located at 403 South Britain Road, Irving, Texas, 75060. A funeral service will take place on November 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, also at Chism-Smith Funeral Home.

Paula Hernandez Celedonio’s spirit will continue to resonate within the hearts of her family and friends, always remembered for her unwavering love and commitment to those she held dear.