Maria Elena Ruiz, age 62, of Whitesboro, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 23rd, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Maria Elena was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and pillar of the Whitesboro community for over 25 years. Her strength, love, and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew her.
Maria Elena was born in Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico, to Maria Elida Castillo and Ramon Marquez, both of whom preceded her in death. She emigrated to the United States in the 1990s to create a better life for her family, and she quickly became an integral part of the community in Whitesboro. Maria Elena’s devotion to her family was unmatched, and she was truly the glue that held them together. Her love and care for her children and grandchildren were boundless, and she took great joy in spending time with them.
Maria Elena was a proud Baptist, faithfully attending church and living her life with a deep sense of purpose and devotion. Her home was a reflection of her nurturing spirit—she loved gardening, especially tending to her beautiful rose bushes and chile plants. These simple pleasures brought her joy and gave her a sense of peace that she shared with all who visited.
She is survived by her loving husband of many years, Santos Ruiz, of Zaragoza, Coahuila, Mexico, and their children and their spouses: Santos Jr. and Melissa Ruiz of Valley View, Sergio and Sharron Ruiz of Sherman, Fernando Ruiz of Whitesboro, Ruben and Alondra Ruiz of Sherman, Raquel and Javier Perez of Whitesboro, Eddie and Mercedes Ruiz of Denison, Selena and Rigo Melendez of Whitesboro, and her 19 grandchildren, all of whom were a great source of pride and joy to her.
Maria Elena was preceded in death by her parents, Maria Elida Castillo and Ramon Marquez.
Her legacy of love, faith, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the Whitesboro community, but her spirit will continue to guide them.
A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Meador Funeral Home of Whitesboro, officiated by Rev. Ricardo Martinez. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Whitesboro. A time of visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025 at Meador Funeral Home from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Maria Elena’s family would like to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.