Cecilia Castillo

Cecilia "Chila" Castillo, a beloved daughter, sister, aunt and cherished member of her family, passed away at the age of 103, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, kindness, and countless treasured memories.

Cecilia was born on November 24, 1922, in Laredo, Texas, to Jose and Josefa Castillo. A lifelong Laredo resident, she was proud of her roots and the community she called home. She was blessed to live 103 beautiful years, made possible through the devoted and loving care of her niece, Graciela, whose compassion and dedication allowed her to remain surrounded by comfort, dignity, and love.

Cecilia dedicated many years of her life to working as a secretary for a forwarding agency, where she eventually retired. She was known for her kindness, quick wit, generosity, and warm spirit. To those who knew and loved her, Chila was someone whose presence brought comfort and joy.

Her catholic faith was an important part of her life. She was a devoted catholic who carried her faith with her throughout her 103 years. She had a special way of blessing those she loved before they left her presence. With love, she would say in Spanish:

"Que la sombra de San Pedro te cubra de todos los peligros."

“May the shadow of Saint Peter protect you from all danger.”

Music was another great joy in Cecilia's life. She enjoyed all kinds of music and loved singing along to her favorite tunes. Her laughter, her singing, and the little blessings she gave so freely will remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Cecilia was preceded in death by her parents, Jose (Josefa) Castillo, and by her sisters: Gregoria Castillo, Elvira (Antonio) Garza, Hortencia (Carmelo) Gonzalez, Carmen Castillo, and Esther Castillo.

She is survived by extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Though her 103 years were long and filled with memories, the love she gave to others will be remembered most. Her faith, her generosity, her humor, and her beautiful spirit will continue to live on through the family she leaves behind.

May she rest peacefully in the loving arms of God, reunited with those who went before her.

Descanse en paz, Tia Chila. May the shadow of Saint Peter protect you from all danger.

The family will be receiving condolences on Thursday evening, August 20, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapels & Cremation Service, 719 Loring at Cortez, where a Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Service will be conducted on Friday morning, August 21, 2026 departing at 9:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapels to San Francisco Javier Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.

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

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 Heights Funeral Chapels & Cremation Service, 719 Loring at Cortez, Laredo, Texas 78040; (956) 722-0001.