Azucena B. Vela

Azucena B. Vela, 90 years old, went to be with our Lord on Thursday, May 14, 2026. She was born in La Casita, Texas, on October 26, 1935, to Cruz Bazan and Enriqueta Villarreal Bazan. 

Azucena married the love of her life, Elizandro Vela, on February 6, 1956. They were married for sixty-five years. Azucena was a devoted wife and mother, always putting her family first before herself. Her faith in God was very strong and important to her, and she instilled that in her family. 

She was a hard worker in the home and out of the home. She acquired many skills by working in different job settings, such as doing labor work in the fields, hoeing and picking cotton, onions, and melons. She worked in the packing sheds and in a sewing factory. She also worked as a cook in the cafeteria at the local elementary school, La Union Elementary. She enjoyed making biscuits and enchiladas for the students and staff, among her other cafeteria duties. Her hobby was sewing. She loved to sew her own window curtains and tablecloths for our home. Azucena left a legacy of love, faith, and
family values.

Left to cherish her memory are her eight children: Ermelinda V. Garcia (Roberto), Hilda V. Escobar (Juan Manuel). Hesiquio Vela (Andrea), Lupita V. Guerrero (Leo), Erminia V. Becerra (Juan Manuel), Irma V. Gorena (Eduardo), Eligio Vela (Sofia), Celestino Vela (Jessica), seventeen grandchildren, and sixteen great-grandchildren. Her sisters, Ramona B. Lopez and Florinda B.
Lopez, as well as many nieces and nephews.

The Vela family would like to thank the CNAs, nurses, doctors, and all the staff of San Juan Nursing Home who provided care for Azucena with love, kindness, and compassion for many years. May God bless each of you.