Our dearest Guadalupe “Lupita” Garza Perez, devoted wife, loving mother, and proud Nana, was called home to receive her heavenly angel wings on February 4, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 21, 1944, in Harlingen, Texas, Lupita was blessed to share 58 wonderful years of marriage with her loving husband and best friend, Daniel. Together they built a life rooted in faith, laughter, and enduring love. After settling in Katy, Texas, in 1978, she devoted her working years to caring for generations of students as a cherished cafeteria lady and school bus driver for the Katy Independent School District, retiring in 2014.
Lupita will be remembered for her gentle spirit and selfless heart. Her presence was a source of comfort and strength, and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She had a true passion for serving God and caring for others, never missing an opportunity to offer a prayer or a hug. Her friendly disposition and ever-present smile radiated warmth and made everyone around her feel welcome.
She loved cooking and was especially famous for her “secret recipe” red and green salsas, which she generously shared with friends and lucky visitors. She adored fashion and took great joy in always looking stylish and radiant. Above all, the greatest joy of her life was her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the center of her world and the legacy she cherished most.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Daniel Perez, Sr.; children Christy Rodriguez and husband Earnest, Daniel Perez, Jr. and partner Shawn Smith, and Tricia Perez; grandchildren Christopher Rodriguez, Anthony Lewis, Mariah Lewis, Timothy Lewis, Lauren Rodriguez, and Aiden Smith-Perez; great-grandchildren Sebastian Lewis, Ayva Lewis, and Sky Lewis; brother David Garza; sister Minnie Castro; and numerous in-love-laws, nieces, and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Amador and Alejandra Garza; parents-in-love, Genaro and Isabel Perez; brother Rolando Garza; and sisters-in-love Belle Jaeger and Lucy Perez.
A viewing will be held on February 14, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Leal Funeral Home, located at 11123 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079. A pastoral prayer and message will be offered at 5:00 p.m.