It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ofilia Perez Vasquez on December 15, 2024. Born on November 15, 1945, Ofilia leaves behind a legacy of kindness, sincerity, resourcefulness, and helpfulness shaped by a life filled with love and faith.
She is survived by her loving daughter Marissa Varajas-Gonzales, caring son-in-law Ray Gonzales, cherished grandson Steven Ray Gonzales, beloved brother Elias Vasquez Jr., and dear niece Maribel Vasquez and great nephew, Joshua Wilson and two wryly pets Leo and Daisy, many cherished cousins, family and friends. She joyfully welcomed her grandchild into the world in 1994, a moment that remains a highlight of her life. She was preceded in death by her father Elias Vasquez Sr., and her mother Josefina Perez Vasquez.
Ofilia graduated from Devine High School in 1964, establishing a lifelong love for education that she proudly passed onto her daughter. She found spiritual solace at the Primera Iglesia Bautista Betania, an anchor point of faith and devotion in her life.
She was a woman of many interests and passions. She held a deep love for Mexican food, particularly enchiladas, casserole dishes, and homemade stuffing. Her beverage of choice was sweet tea and coke. Ofilia spent many hours lost in the pages of the Bible. She enjoyed the sounds of Mariachi bands and certain church hymns, and her television preferences included Molly B Polka music, Jimmy Swaggart faith musicals, and Heartland. Her sports enthusiasm was mainly reserved for baseball, and she loved watching performances of polka music and mariachis.
Known for her sweet, caring, strong willed and courageous nature, Ofilia’s favorite recreational activities included lively chats with her brother and cousins, and staying informed through watching CNN. She also enjoyed the tranquility of staying at home, and visiting local spots like DQ and Walmart. She cared deeply about the Love of Christ, sharing her faith and kindness wherever she could. Lilac and yellow were her favorite colors, adding vibrant touches to her life.
Ofilia’s greatest accomplishments include her dedication to education and helping her daughter attain a college degree. She championed the importance of love, time for each other, and keeping close contact with friends and family. As a testament to her love for life and humanity, Ofilia wished to donate her body to science (we were not able to do that).
A Celebration of Life for Ofilia P. Vasquez will be held on January 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Primera Iglesia Bautista Betania in Devine. We invite you to join us in honoring a woman of steadfast faith, enduring love, and boundless generosity. She will always be remembered and dearly missed by all who knew her.