Cecilia Hinojosa

Cecilia Hinojosa

August 23, 1947 – February 13, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cecilia Hinojosa, lovingly referred to as “Ceci” or “Mrs. H” who joined our Lord in His heavenly kingdom on Thursday, February 13, 2025. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left this world surrounded by the love she so freely gave.

Cecilia was born in Harlingen, Texas on August 23,1947 to Raul and Elva Gonzalez. She had a special place in their hearts as she was the eldest of their six daughters. Growing up, she attended school at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church where she was an avid and successful volleyball player and where her claim to fame was once being crowned the Queen of the school. She then attended and graduated from Harlingen High School where life was filled with lots of fun times and where she met lifelong friends. She later attended Pan American University in Edinburg, Texas. It was there that she met a handsome young man, Abiel Hinojosa, who would later become her loving husband of 51 years. Their story began on the library steps at the University, where fate brought them together and love bound them forever. They married in December of 1971 and went on to live a life filled with love and devotion until his passing in October of 2023. She missed him so every day and we are sure he greeted her with a hug and a box of chocolates as she joined him just in time to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

As a newlywed couple, they lived in a few parts of the country until Abiel’s career in the United States Border Patrol landed them in Laredo, Texas. It was there that they raised their three children, Abiel Rolando “Jito”, Ana Cecilia and Mario Alberto. She was a proud and loving mother who always went the extra mile for her kids. She enriched their lives with her kindness, wisdom, devotion and of course, laughter. As a mom, she spent countless hours at the baseball fields, football fields, dance recital halls and the list goes on and on. She devoted her life to being a mom who prioritized family and regardless of the craziness of the family’s weekly agenda, she always found a way to be present for her kids’ activities.

She was known by so many as the neighborhood caretaker and so much so that for part of her career she established a day care where she created a fun and loving environment for kids. She later transitioned into the public school’s system and was a long time employee of the United Independent School District as both a Librarian and Executive Secretary for the Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. It was there that she met so many people who began as colleagues and later became part of an extended family of friends. Those who knew “Mrs. H” in the district knew how special she was. She ran a tight ship guided by love and care for all. Her former boss has described her as "the greatest partner God could have blessed her with," a testament to the dedication and grace she brought to every aspect of her life.

She played many roles in her life, but perhaps one of the most special roles was that of Momo to her three beautiful grandchildren, Noah, Sarah and Jude. Her grandchildren loved their Momo beyond measure. She was more glamorous than most grandmothers and always found a way to make each of them feel special. She delighted in showering them with affection, gifts, and the warmth of her nurturing spirit. Even as adults, Noah, Sarah and Jude were always her babies and the first time she held each of them she knew they were gifts from up above. She spent many weekends on the road to be with them and enjoy their events. She never wanted to miss an opportunity to share special times with these three.

Cecilia had an eye for beauty and a heart for simple joys. Walking into her home you couldn’t help but admire all the beautiful Decor for every holiday and season. She had an eye for all things that exude elegance. She never missed a nail appointment and her outfits were always on point. Of course, the most important part of her daily planning of outfits was her thoughtful selection of the perfect set of jewelry to complete her daily look. She had a great sense of style and glamour, always carrying herself with elegance and charm. She also enjoyed simple things in life like sitting by the pool on her porch and tending to her potted plants. Whether watching Hallmark movies, Lifetime dramas, or her favorite novelas, she always found a way to bring laughter to a room. One thing about her was that all things changed when you got her to a table to play a game like Scrabble…her competitive nature was like no other and she refused to be beat. Her witty remarks and her genius quips are some of the many things her family and friends will miss.

Above all, Cecilia was a wonderful lady, loved by so many. Her warmth, generosity, and beautiful spirit will be dearly missed, but the love she shared will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Abiel R. Hinojosa, her parents, Raul and Elva Gonzalez and her sister, Camelina Atkinson.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving children Abiel Rolando (Salina) Hinojosa, Ana Cecilia (Braulio) Gloria and Mario Alberto Hinojosa and her grandchildren Noah Abiel, Sarah Salina and Jude Joaquin. She is also survived by four of her sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A special thank you to her caretakers and her sisters, Chela and Cathy. Her sisters’ trips to visit always filled Ceci’s heart with joy. Chela catered to her big sister and every time they got together, the menu was driven by Ceci’s favorite dishes. From Chela’s famous chicken salad to the delicious congealed salad dessert, Chela always prepared the perfect dish for Ceci.

She will be greatly missed by all. Rest in peace, Ceci. Your love, laughter, elegance and grace will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew you.

For those who wish to celebrate her life with the family, you may do so in Laredo on Thursday, February 20, 2025 5:00 to 9:00 PM at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels, 1410 Jacaman Rd; where a Rosary will commence at 7 PM. Local services will conclude Thursday evening. 

Pallbearers will be: Abiel Rolando Hinojosa, Mario Alberto Hinojosa, Braulio Gloria, Mark Garza, Jude Hinojosa, and Noah Hinojosa.

The Right of Committal and Interment will take place at 2:00 PM at the Family Plot of the Restlawn Memorial Park, 14166 US-83 BUS, La Feria, Tx on Friday, February 21.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.