Vernette Carranza

Vernette Carranza

October 17, 1944 – July 19, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Edna Vernette Carranza, a beloved mother, devoted wife, and esteemed leader in the home health care industry. Born on October 17, 1944, in Austin, Texas, Vernette graced this world with her kindness and dedication for nearly 81 years. She departed this life peacefully in Laredo, Texas, where she had resided since the 1970s.

Vernette was a proud graduate of a nursing program in San Antonio, Texas, which served as the foundation for her remarkable career in healthcare. She became a cherished school nurse at Nye Elementary, where her nurturing spirit touched the lives of countless children. Her commitment to education led her to pursue not one, but two master’s degrees, culminating in her role as the Director of Nursing at Laredo Community College.

As President of Texas Health Staffing for over 20 years, Vernette's vision and leadership transformed the landscape of home health care. Under her guidance, the agency flourished, driven by her unwavering passion for quality care and her innate desire to support those in need. Vernette was not just an executive; she was a mentor and advocate for many, especially through her involvement with the LOVED organization and Laredo HSDA HIV/AIDS Service Consortia, where she championed awareness and compassion.

Vernette found joy in traveling, eagerly exploring new horizons and cultures, always with an open heart. Her zest for life was infectious, inspiring those around her to embrace the beauty in every moment. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and resilience that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Victor Haag and Edna Irene Sandstrom; brother, David Raetzsch.

Left to cherish her memory her husband, Dr. Henry Santos Carranza; children, Denise Nixon (John Charles) Bunk; son, Jonathan Andrew Nixon; stepdaughter, Mary Jane Thompson; grandchildren, Samantha Bunk, Davis Bunk, Jonathan Nixon, Sebastian Nixon, Derek Thompson, and Kristian Carranza; siblings, Carl W. Raetzsch, Betty Saenz, and Carla Grant as well as numerous, other relatives, and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Friday evening, July 25, 2025 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Prayer Service will commence at 7 p.m.

A private cremation will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers family is encouraging all to make a donation to: LaredoOrganizedVolunteersfortheElderlyandDisadvantagedLOVEDPrescriptionExpenseAssistance_21_1757_0

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.