Mary Helen "Nena" Castillo

1956 - 2025

Houston - In Loving Memory of Mary Helen Castillo: Celebrating a Life of Kindness, Generosity, and Lasting Impact:

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Helen "Nena" Castillo on August 26, 2025. Born and raised in Donna, Texas, she demonstrated compassion and a commitment to making a positive impact throughout her life. Guided by caring parents who imparted the values of resilience, strength, education, and hard work, Nena dedicated over 18 years to teaching with the Weslaco Independent School District. She was devoted to her profession, taking great satisfaction in assisting students to master mathematics and shaping numerous young minds.

Nena further extended her service to the community through her work at Hidalgo County Precinct #1 in Weslaco, Texas, where she contributed another 18 years. Nena was the first to arrive to work each morning, faithfully "turning the lights on" and setting the tone for the day.

She was the heart and voice of the customer service department, greeting each person with compassion, patience, and care. To her work family, Nena was more than a colleague. She was a

source of light, laughter, and comfort whose presence will be deeply missed. In addition, Nena was actively involved in politics, following in the footsteps of her father. Many residents of Donna, Texas, remember her campaigning for candidates she believed in, promoting public awareness on social issues, and encouraging civic participation through voting. Known for her generosity and willingness to assist those in need, Nena consistently placed others before herself.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jose Alonso Salinas and Maria Luisa Doria Salinas; her sisters, Alicia Ochoa and Dolores Martinez; and her brother, Jose Alonso Salinas Jr. She is survived by her sisters, Maria Hernandez and Guadalupe Quintanilla; her brothers, Daniel Salinas II, Robert Salinas, Esteban Salinas, Gilberto Salinas, Rene Salinas; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Nena's laughter, empathy, and kindness will be sincerely missed. As the prolific writer John Bunyan once said, "You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you." This sentiment encapsulates the generous spirit by which Nena lived each day and serves as a lasting example of the profound difference one individual can make.