Diana S. Farias

Diana Salinas Farias, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend to so many, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025, in her hometown of Laredo, Texas, surrounded by her children which she so deeply loved. She was 85. 

Born on October 3, 1940, to E.G. and Lilia Salinas, Diana was a proud Laredoan whose life was rooted in family, kindness, and service to others. She lived with quiet grace, guided by strong values that shaped not only her own family, but the wider community she loved.

Above all else, Diana was the heart of the Farias family. Known lovingly as "Nana" by her grandchildren. She had the rare gift of making every person feel cherished and certain they were her favorite. Her home was always open, her table always full, and her arms always ready to welcome one more. Neighbors, friends, classmates, and even strangers found comfort within her walls, where laughter, conversation, and the aroma of a lovingly prepared meal were constants. Somehow, she always made enough food—and always found enough love for everyone. 

Diana devoted her life to nurturing others. She raised her children with intention, instilling in them the importance of compassion, generosity, and keeping family at the center of life. She carried on traditions with joy, hosting every holiday and celebration, ensuring that generations gathered together and learned the value of connection. That legacy lives on in her children and grandchildren, who continue to honor the example she set. 

Education was another of Diana's lifelong callings. A graduate of Martin High School's Class of 1958, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in English from Texas Woman's University in Denton, where she also pursued graduate studies. She shared her love of language and learning as an English teacher at L.J. Christian and later at Nixon High School. Decades after leaving the classroom, former students still reached out sending Christmas cards, letters, and heartfelt thanks-remembering not just what she taught, but how she made them feel. 

On December 26, 1964, Diana married the love of her life, Dr. Hector Farias, Jr. Together they built a life centered on partnership, generosity, and family. In addition to her many roles, Diana served as Vice President of Farias and Farias, Inc. from its inception, contributing steadily and thoughtfully to the family business. 

Her care extended far beyond her own family. Diana was deeply involved in the Laredo community, generously giving her time and talents. She was a longtime member of St. Patrick's Church and the St. Patrick's Altar Society, where she quietly ensured that altar garments were always cleaned and ready. She also belonged to the Society of Martha Washington, Tuesday Music and Literature Club, Villa de San Augustine de Laredo, Kidney Foundation of Laredo, Women's City Club, the Webb County Heritage Foundation, the Genealogical Society, and VALOR. Her compassion for animals was especially close to her heart. 

For many years, she volunteered with the Laredo Animal Protective Society, advocating for those without a voice. In in 2021. She was also honored by Divine Years of LAPS in 2014 recognition of her service, Diana received the Jefferson Award and recognized by her alma mater as a Martin High School Tiger Legend in 2015. 

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, E.G. and Lilia Salinas, and her sister, Lily Wright.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Hector Farias; her children, Diana Farias DeWall (Marc DeWall), Gonzalo P. Farias (Susana Farias), Cristina Farias (Juan Cienfuegos), Ana Maria Farias, Marisela Farias Ridgley (Tedsan Ridgley), Alejandra Farias Landis (Robert Landis), and Susanna Farias Druker (Uriel Druker). She is also survived by her siblings, Norma Salinas Hagy (Carl Hagy), Alicia Salinas Reed (Perry Reed), and Manuel Salinas (Norma Salinas). 

Nana's greatest joy was her grandchildren: Drake, Alexa, and Luke DeWall; Hector, Rafael, Enrique, and Isabella Farias; Edward, Elise, Jacob, and Natalie Ridgley; Victoria, Robert and Elizabeth Landis; and Arie, Ryan, and Noah Druker. Each one held a special place in her heart, and each carries forward her example of love, generosity, and grace.

Diana Salinas Farias lived a life of steady strength, gentle leadership, and boundless care for others. She mothered not only her own family, but everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Her warmth, her open door, and her enduring love will continue to guide those she leaves behind. 

The family will be receiving condolences on Thursday morning, December 18, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Thursday morning, December 18, 2025 departing at 11:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to St. Patrick Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Diana's memory to the Laredo Animal Protective Society— continuing her lifelong mission of caring for all creatures.

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.