Maria Granado

Maria Granado, a beloved wife, daughter, mother, and cherished friend, departed this world on December 16, 2025, in Odessa, Texas, at the age of 94. She was born on November 11, 1931, in Rincon de Romos, Aguas Calientes, Mexico. Maria's life was a tapestry woven with her love for family, dedication to education, and her diverse interests that brought joy to those around her.

Her career as a state employee at Sul Ross State University in Alpine exemplified her commitment to the community. Maria was not only dedicated to her work but also to nurturing the minds of the younger generations. She took immense pride in teaching her grandchildren and neighborhood children Spanish, sharing with them the beauty and richness of her language and culture. Her love for children was evident in her interactions, and her patient, caring spirit influenced many lives.

Education was a lifelong pursuit for Maria. She completed her high school equivalency before successfully completing over 100 semester credit hours of college at Sul Ross State University. This achievement, alongside her passion for singing in the university choir, reflected her belief in the transformative power of learning and artistic expression.

Above all, Maria was known for her friendly and caring personality. She loved visiting and engaging in heartfelt conversations, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her warmth and kindness extended to her pets, who were also a source of joy throughout her life, and she had a special affinity for tending to her flowers, creating a vibrant and welcoming home.

Maria leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her daughters: Leticia G. Reyes, married to David Reyes, and Laura Slight, married to David Slight; and Lilia G. Nañez, married to Ignacio; as well as her son, Manuel C. Granado, married to Lydia. Maria also leaves behind seven grandchildren. They are Phillip and Stephen Reyes, Xavier and Michael Nañez, and Jasmine, Jeremy and Jaclyn Granado, and great-grandchildren, Evelina Nañez, Luka Isaiah Granado, Alicia Quiroz and Daniel Granado.

She is reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Manuel V. Granado; her father, Jesus R. Castillo; her mother, Maria A. Castillo; her sister, Agapita C. Candia; and her son, Gerald C. Granado.

In honor of Maria’s life, visitation will be held at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Alpine on December 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM until 11:30 AM, followed by the recitation of the most Holy Rosary, culminating with a Mass starting at noon. The interment will take place at Holy Angels Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest, surrounded by those who love her.

As we remember Maria’s legacy, we celebrate her kindness, her devotion to her family, and her unwavering belief in the power of love and education. She left an indelible mark on all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.

The family would like to thank the staff at Courtyards Memory Care and Heart to Heart Hospice for the support and wonderful care they provided to our mother.

Services have been entrusted to Alpine Memorial Funeral Home in Alpine, Texas and gifts and condolences may be left by visiting www.alpinememorialfuneralhome.com. Donations in Maria’s memory may be made to the Alpine Humane Society or to the Fine Arts Department at Sul Ross State University.