Maria Magdalena "Malena" Medina

Maria Magdalena Medina, 96, joined our Lord in His heavenly kingdom on Sunday, October 18, 2026 surrounded by her loving children by her side.

Maria had a zest for life that resonated with all who knew her, often expressed through her fondness for playing Lotería—a game that brought joy, and laughter to her family gatherings.

In addition to her passion for games, Maria was renowned for her culinary talents, particularly in making tamales. What began as a cherished family tradition evolved into a thriving endeavor, as she graciously shared her delicious creations with friends, neighbors, and the wider community.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ventura Medina; her parents, Norberto Medina and Maria Hernandez, her son; Lorenzo Antonio (Tomasa) Medina, her daughter; Teresa de Jesus Medina; her granddaughter, Cynthia Cruz; her grandson, Marco Antonio Medina and her siblings, Jesus Rincon and Martha (Ezequiel) Colunga

Left to cherish her memory are her children; Maria Reyna (Jose Luis) Miranda, Virginia I. Cruz, Luis N. (Sylvia) Medina, Ana Luara Tristan, Thelma (Bryan) Heil and Brenda Medina; 21 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, 40 great-great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other loving relatives and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Wednesday evening, October 21, 2026 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapels & Cremation Service, 719 Loring at Cortez; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Service will be conducted on Thursday morning, October 22, 2026 departing at 9:30 a.m. from Joe Jackson Heights Funeral Chapels to San Vicente de Paul Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m.

A private cremation will be held at a later date.

The family would like to give special thanks to her caregivers, Maria Rosales and Rosalia Salazar and Altus Hospice for all the attention they gave to our mother.

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.