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.