Ana Maria "Annie" Escamilla

Ana Maria “Annie” Escamilla, 74, gained her angelic wings on September 4, 2026. Annie, as she was affectionately known by all, was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, great-aunt, and friend to many.

She was born to her parents, Oscar and Josefina Lopez, on April 24, 1952, and was a lifelong resident of Laredo, Texas. From a young age, her parents instilled the value of education. Being an overachiever and perfectionist, Annie graduated from Martin High School at the age of 16 and immediately left Laredo to further her education at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas. It was there that she found her calling to help the most vulnerable and delicate people of society. She earned her Master’s degree in Counseling before the age of 21 and became a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. Despite being able to open her own practice, Annie’s heart of gold led her to the public education system, where she dedicated her life and career to special needs children.

For over 40 years, she gifted her life to countless students, parents, and colleagues. Her door was never closed to anyone, no matter the reason. During her career and 40+ year tenure at Laredo Independent School District, Ana Maria had many roles. She started at Farias Elementary as a special education unit teacher and later as a homebound teacher. She became a counselor at Lamar Middle School and worked there until 1984, when “The Pride of South Laredo” Dr. Leo G. Cigarroa High School opened its doors. She then stayed there as a special education guidance counselor until her retirement in 2011. She was most proud of her volunteer tutoring and counseling services she provided to Sacred Heart Children’s Home for many years.

Although she was an accomplished educator and counselor, her biggest accomplishment and blessing in life was her family. She married the love of her life, Jose Angel Escamilla, on December 14, 1984, after many years of courtship. Together they enjoyed Tejano concerts, carne asada with friends, riding the open road on Jose Angel’s Harley-Davidson, and frequent trips to Las Vegas. They were blessed with their only son, Joseph Angelo Escamilla, on September 20, 1991. Angelo was Annie’s world. The immense love towards her son could be seen and felt by those closest to her. She was Angelo’s biggest supporter in all his endeavors, especially his dream of playing professional golf.

We remember her life of selflessness and simplicity. She was the definition of compassion, empathy, love, and giving. She never turned away someone in need. She sacrificed so much of herself to help others and found the greatest joy in life was giving and serving.

Welcoming her into Eternal Paradise are her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; her spouse of 39 years, Jose Angel Escamilla; her parents, Oscar and Josefina Lopez; and numerous aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her son, Joseph Angelo (Alexia) Escamilla; siblings, Sylvia (Manuel) Garcia, Rosie Escobar, and Oscar Lopez Jr., nephew, Joaquin (Jackie) Escobar, nieces, Sylvia Jean Garcia, Yvonne (Charlie) Wilson; great nieces and nephews Briella Escobar, Audrina Escobar, Tomas Wilson, Hawk Wilson, and Birdie Wilson; numerous cousins and her beloved grand-dogs Divy, Fendi, Benji, and Chloe.

The family will be receiving condolences on Thursday evening, September 10, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels, 1410 Jacaman Rd., where a Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Friday morning, September 11, 2026, departing at 10 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to San Martin De Porres Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Rolando Lopez, Gilberto Lopez, Jr., Oscar Lopez, Jr., Arturo Lopez, Jr., Eduardo Lozano, Joseph Angelo Escamilla, Joaquin Escobar, and Steven Gonzalez.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Ramiro Benavides, Jr., and Charlie Wilson.

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

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.