Sonya Emma Vela

Edinburg - Sonya Emma Vela, aka Nana, 80, entered eternal rest Sunday, December 26, 2021, at Colonial Manor in Pharr.

Born in Mission, she had lived in Edinburg for the past six months and was formerly of Austin / Buda.

Ms. Vela is preceded by Angel A. Vela, Emma Barrera Vela, and Yolanda Vela Leo, and survived by a daughter, Tara Vela Piña of Buda, three grandchildren, Joseph Faz Jr. of Buda, Jessica Cruz of Seattle, Juan Pina III of El Paso; and a brother, Rene Vela of Edinburg.

Ms, Vela was a music teacher for over 40 years. She cared deeply about teaching and inspiring her students to love music. Many of her former students remember a bubbly, sweet and spicy, always supportive music teacher, from Houston Elementary in Austin, TX.

Her grandchildren and great grandchildren called her Nana. She was known for her unconditional love and giving ways. She played a huge part in raising her first grandson, Joseph, loved her long conversations with her granddaughter, Jessica, and spoiled her youngest grandson, Juanito.

Mom was independent, compassionate, kind and selfless. She loved her margaritas, cokes and her dog Mojo, who passed a few weeks ago. I know they are back together again, along with her sister, mother and father.

We are blessed that we were all able to be with her one last time on Christmas Day. Special thanks to uncle Rene and aunt Mary Jane for being with her every day for the past four months between the hospital and nursing facility!

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., with a 7 p.m. memorial service Saturday, January 8, 2022, at Memorial Funeral Home, 208 East Canton in Edinburg.

The family would like to give their thanks and appreciation for all of the nurses and staff at Colonial Manor. They truly are heroes!

Funeral services are under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home in Edinburg.