Timeline for Barbara Castillon Garza
Born: July 18, 1961
Died: December 1, 2015
Barbara Castillon Garza passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on December 1, 2015, at the age of 54. Her soul now rejoices in heaven where she will spend eternity in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
A lifelong Laredoan, Barbara graduated from St. Augustine High School in 1979, and earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in English from Laredo State University in 1986. Shortly thereafter, Barbara began her career as an English and Reading teacher, serving the Laredo community in our public elementary and middle schools for nearly 20 years. Her time spent in the classroom would come to represent some of her happiest and most gratifying moments; nothing satisfied her more than working with her students. Barbara’s passion for education and for mentoring students was admirable and inspiring. Rarely would a public outing pass without a former student approaching her in gratitude for her dedication to their success within and beyond the classroom. Barbara’s interests extended beyond teaching, leading her to pursue a real estate license. She became a licensed real estate agent in 2005, and found great joy in this pursuit until her initial cancer diagnosis in 2007 shifted her life course, focusing her attention on recovering her health and spending time with loved ones. Upon regaining her health, Barbara resumed her teaching career, an opportunity she relished, until she once again received a cancer diagnosis in 2013. She reluctantly resigned, taking substitute positions when possible, always maintaining a desire to work with the youth of our community. Barbara’s presence and contagious smile always lit up the room, and her laughter and entertaining sense of humor will be missed.
She was preceded in death by her father, Carlos Castillon. Barbara is survived by her mother, Betty Castillon; husband, Dr. Isaias Garza, Jr.; daughter, Christina Gutierrez; and son, Wayo Garza; step-son, Isaias Garza III; and step-daughter, Karla Garza. Barbara also shared a very special bond with her grandchildren, Armando and Bella Garza. Barbara is also survived by her siblings: Carlos (Veronica) Castillon; Dr. Edward Castillon; Patty (Rocky) Bruni; Robert (Mari) Castillon; and, Dr. Ricardo (Christina) Castillon. She is also survived by her beloved aunt, Patricia Martin Hillery, and her cousins, who were also her kindred spirits, Pamela St. John and Deanna Whaley. In addition to her immediate family, Barbara leaves behind many more loved ones, including nieces and nephews, brothers- and sisters-in-law, cousins, and dear friends. The family would like to lovingly single out those individuals who generously provided their love and support to Barbara during particularly difficult moments of her struggle: Michelle Begwin, Manni Hachar, Bobbie Ceballos, and John Campbell. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to her medical care team: Dr. Eduardo Miranda, Dr. Luis Benavides, Dr. Marvin Smith, and Dr. Charles Andrews. Donations can be made to the Victorious Christian Harvesters.
The family will be receiving guests on Friday, December 4, 2015, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will be at 11:00 am, Rev. David Blanchard will officiate. Interment will immediately follow to the Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Carlos Castillon, Dr. Edward Castillon, Robbie Castillon, Dr. Ricardo Castillon, Rocky Bruni, Ernest Bruni and John Campbell. Honorary pallbearers will be: Rick Garza, Jesus “Chuy” Garza, Luis Gonzalez, Ralph Del Barrio, David Castillon, Ricky Castillon and Carlos R. Castillon.
Funeral arrangements are by Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services, 1320 Trey Dr. Laredo, Texas 78041 (956)723-3611. For your convenience you may sign the guest book or leave your condolences to the family online at www.freddickey.com.
To all the Garza and Castillon family: So very sorry for your loss, Barbara's light will shine forever in hearts and, may she rest in eternal peace..... With sincere & heartfelt sympathy, Tuti Salido
May God provide you strength during this most difficult time. Cheque and I send our deepest sympathy to the entire family. Our memory of Barbara as a vivacious, kind and strong woman will remain with us forever. God bless. Elisa and Cheque
Barbara and I were always looking for the perfect church. A church that would help us heal and rejoice in God's love. Barbara found it first. Rest in peace, my friend. Mrs. Flores
Our deepest condolences from the Ramirez/ Cedillo Family! I wouldn't be a REALTOR if it wasn't for Barbara. A fond memory that I will always keep in my heart is that when she and I were studying to get our license it came so easy for her. As for me I would sing to her IF I ONLY HAD A BRAIN. I made her laugh so much. I will truly miss her. My love and prayers to the Castillon / Garza Family
My wife and I were fortunate enough to work with Barbara at United Middle School for several years. The world of education lost an amazing individual. She had such a significant impact on every single student who entered her classroom. Barbara's strength and perseverance during her battle with cancer was truly motivating. She faced every challenge with a smile and we will never forget her. We would like to express our sincerest condolences to her friends and family.
We are deeply saddened by the news of your loss. May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. God rest her soul in peace!
Our deepest condolences to the Castillon and Garza Family. Our family extends our prayers to both the Castillon and Garza families during your time of grief. Joseph Mendiola
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Barbara. I did not keep in touch with Barbara, but she was born the same year as my sister Cheryl Hunter, who we lost at the age of 23 in an auto accident. My mother was taken by cancer. It is never easy to lose a loved one, whether it be suddenly ior due to a prolonged battle with illness. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. I was encouraged by her life story and by finding out about David Blanchard and the Victorious Christian Harvesters mission. May Barbara's life continue to bring glory to God through this organization and the lives she touched. - the Mora Family (represented by Jan, Ben, and Rachel Mora)
Thank you for being such an important part of my life Mrs. G and for always remembering me at HEB, even four years after I had you. I love you! My thoughts and prayers for the family. She is an angel in a much better place- still impacting people's lives from above.
Nothing can be said to ease the pain in losing a loved one and though we mourn her passing, we cherish the life of Barbara as she touched many of our lives and will be greatly missed. she was kind and caring to us all; she helped save many of us strays - God Bless you and thank you for being my friend
Our sincere condolences to the Castillon and Garza Families, may Barbara rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior. God bless the family with peace, comfort, and serenity. Ross, Lillian and Rosa Maria Swisher
My wife and I, would like to express our heartfelt condolences on the passing of my Tia Barbara. Our thoughts and prayers go out to both my Tio Isaias and their children Christina and Wayo. Tia Barbara was kind, loving and considerate to us always. She often asked about how we were, what was happening in our lives, and always left us with a smile. Her laughter was memorable and she will surely be missed. We know that God is taking care of her now and someday we will meet up with her. She is in a place of joy, and without pain. Love, Luis & Erika
My most sincere condollences for your loss. I am sure she will be in the kingdom of GOD
my condolences for the loss of your wife. She surely will be in the kingdom of god
Barbara life was never dull with you in the room. From the moment I met you at Ursuline Academy, you were a spark in others lives. Your comedic creativity, even as a child is so memorable. When one of the nuns, killed a fly in class, you organized a funeral to be held the next day for the fly. With a straight face in a group of girls you gave it last words which I remember some to be--- "God bless this fly," One of our mutual friends buried the fly in a chicken bouillon box. In later life, you became a teacher but to me you were one of the best natural comedians in every day life. You were a blessing to have as a friend. Barbara Louis Castillon Garza brought so much joy in our lives, and my cousins will miss you too. With love, Karen
Our thought and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Condenses. Reynaldo and Griselda Collazo
Nuestro mas sentido pesame por esta gran perdida, que D's la tenga en su Santa Gloria y a ustedes les conceda toda la paz y resignacion que se merecen
I had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Garza, during my middle school years at United Middle School. She was and continues to be the one teacher that made a huge impact on my life. Her love, courage and kind hearted soul made attending class such a joy. When other students would pick on me, I knew I could always reach to her for support. I am now a junior in college, and hearing about her passing still hurts my heart. She will never be forgotten, and I am forever grateful I had the chance to meet such an extraordinary individual like herself. Thank you Mrs. Garza, for always accepting me, and filling my heart with wisdom, warmth, and compassion. My condolences go out to all of her family. Prayers are being sent your way. God bless.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time. She was a beautiful person inside and out. I had the privilege to work with her at United Middle School. She was an inspiration to her students. She will be missed dearly.... Selika Salinas
We are so deeply saddened to hear of Barbara's passing, she was a great lady and a significant influence for good in others' lives. My daughter (Missy) worked for Dr. Garza, so when she was going to get married and moving to North Carolina, Barbara and Dr. Garza graciously arranged a going away party at their beautiful home. Please remember that we are here to help however we can. Don't hesitate to call if you need us. We are out of town and could not make it to the service(s). Please know that our family loves and cares about you all. We will be in touch.
My fondest memories of Barbara date back to the 1960's when our families lived but two blocks away from each other in the Heights neighborhood. Even as a child, Barbara would energize the surroundings with that wonderful combination of high energy and beautiful smile. Linda and I share our sympathies with the Castillon and Garza families.
Date: Friday, December 4, 2015
Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services
Address:
Date: Friday, December 4, 2015
Time: 11:00 am
Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services
Address:
Date: Friday, December 4, 2015
Time: 12:00 pm
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Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services.
To all the Garza and Castillon family: So very sorry for your loss, Barbara's light will shine forever in hearts and, may she rest in eternal peace..... With sincere & heartfelt sympathy, Tuti Salido
May God provide you strength during this most difficult time. Cheque and I send our deepest sympathy to the entire family. Our memory of Barbara as a vivacious, kind and strong woman will remain with us forever. God bless. Elisa and Cheque
Barbara and I were always looking for the perfect church. A church that would help us heal and rejoice in God's love. Barbara found it first. Rest in peace, my friend. Mrs. Flores
Our deepest condolences from the Ramirez/ Cedillo Family! I wouldn't be a REALTOR if it wasn't for Barbara. A fond memory that I will always keep in my heart is that when she and I were studying to get our license it came so easy for her. As for me I would sing to her IF I ONLY HAD A BRAIN. I made her laugh so much. I will truly miss her. My love and prayers to the Castillon / Garza Family
My wife and I were fortunate enough to work with Barbara at United Middle School for several years. The world of education lost an amazing individual. She had such a significant impact on every single student who entered her classroom. Barbara's strength and perseverance during her battle with cancer was truly motivating. She faced every challenge with a smile and we will never forget her. We would like to express our sincerest condolences to her friends and family.
We are deeply saddened by the news of your loss. May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. God rest her soul in peace!
Our deepest condolences to the Castillon and Garza Family. Our family extends our prayers to both the Castillon and Garza families during your time of grief. Joseph Mendiola
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Barbara. I did not keep in touch with Barbara, but she was born the same year as my sister Cheryl Hunter, who we lost at the age of 23 in an auto accident. My mother was taken by cancer. It is never easy to lose a loved one, whether it be suddenly ior due to a prolonged battle with illness. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. I was encouraged by her life story and by finding out about David Blanchard and the Victorious Christian Harvesters mission. May Barbara's life continue to bring glory to God through this organization and the lives she touched. - the Mora Family (represented by Jan, Ben, and Rachel Mora)
Thank you for being such an important part of my life Mrs. G and for always remembering me at HEB, even four years after I had you. I love you! My thoughts and prayers for the family. She is an angel in a much better place- still impacting people's lives from above.
Nothing can be said to ease the pain in losing a loved one and though we mourn her passing, we cherish the life of Barbara as she touched many of our lives and will be greatly missed. she was kind and caring to us all; she helped save many of us strays - God Bless you and thank you for being my friend
Our sincere condolences to the Castillon and Garza Families, may Barbara rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior. God bless the family with peace, comfort, and serenity. Ross, Lillian and Rosa Maria Swisher
My wife and I, would like to express our heartfelt condolences on the passing of my Tia Barbara. Our thoughts and prayers go out to both my Tio Isaias and their children Christina and Wayo. Tia Barbara was kind, loving and considerate to us always. She often asked about how we were, what was happening in our lives, and always left us with a smile. Her laughter was memorable and she will surely be missed. We know that God is taking care of her now and someday we will meet up with her. She is in a place of joy, and without pain. Love, Luis & Erika
My most sincere condollences for your loss. I am sure she will be in the kingdom of GOD
my condolences for the loss of your wife. She surely will be in the kingdom of god
Barbara life was never dull with you in the room. From the moment I met you at Ursuline Academy, you were a spark in others lives. Your comedic creativity, even as a child is so memorable. When one of the nuns, killed a fly in class, you organized a funeral to be held the next day for the fly. With a straight face in a group of girls you gave it last words which I remember some to be--- "God bless this fly," One of our mutual friends buried the fly in a chicken bouillon box. In later life, you became a teacher but to me you were one of the best natural comedians in every day life. You were a blessing to have as a friend. Barbara Louis Castillon Garza brought so much joy in our lives, and my cousins will miss you too. With love, Karen
Our thought and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Condenses. Reynaldo and Griselda Collazo
Nuestro mas sentido pesame por esta gran perdida, que D's la tenga en su Santa Gloria y a ustedes les conceda toda la paz y resignacion que se merecen
I had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Garza, during my middle school years at United Middle School. She was and continues to be the one teacher that made a huge impact on my life. Her love, courage and kind hearted soul made attending class such a joy. When other students would pick on me, I knew I could always reach to her for support. I am now a junior in college, and hearing about her passing still hurts my heart. She will never be forgotten, and I am forever grateful I had the chance to meet such an extraordinary individual like herself. Thank you Mrs. Garza, for always accepting me, and filling my heart with wisdom, warmth, and compassion. My condolences go out to all of her family. Prayers are being sent your way. God bless.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time. She was a beautiful person inside and out. I had the privilege to work with her at United Middle School. She was an inspiration to her students. She will be missed dearly.... Selika Salinas
We are so deeply saddened to hear of Barbara's passing, she was a great lady and a significant influence for good in others' lives. My daughter (Missy) worked for Dr. Garza, so when she was going to get married and moving to North Carolina, Barbara and Dr. Garza graciously arranged a going away party at their beautiful home. Please remember that we are here to help however we can. Don't hesitate to call if you need us. We are out of town and could not make it to the service(s). Please know that our family loves and cares about you all. We will be in touch.
My fondest memories of Barbara date back to the 1960's when our families lived but two blocks away from each other in the Heights neighborhood. Even as a child, Barbara would energize the surroundings with that wonderful combination of high energy and beautiful smile. Linda and I share our sympathies with the Castillon and Garza families.
Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Fred Dickey Funeral & Cremation Services.