Irene Casarez Gonzalez, age 72, of San Antonio, was surrounded by her family when she went to her heavenly home on May 15, 2020. She was born on August 29, 1947 to Gregoria Elias and Inocencio Casarez.

Our mother was preceded in death by her parents, Gregoria Elias and Inocencio Casarez, stepfather Reynaldo Elias Sr. Her sons Ernest and Adam Gonzalez, her granddaughter Mia Gonzalez, her brothers George Casarez, Juan Casarez, Reynaldo Elias, Frank Elias and Roy Elias. She is survived by her sister Patricia Gutierrez (Jesse), four children Ruben Casarez, Cynthia Pena (Johnny), Debra Gonzalez (David), and Barbara Mendiola. Seven grandchildren, Johnathan Pena, Justin Pena, Ariel Saucedo, Jordan Mendiola, Seth Santos, Noah Ramos, Natalie Ramos and nine great-grandchildren.

Our mother courageously fought pancreatic cancer head on, never wavering in her faith. She almost made it to the year mark. She loved life, her children, grandchildren, and all her family. Everyone who had the pleasure to meet her became her friends. She had the spirit to help everyone who needed it. She was known to stop on the side of the road and help the homeless, giving them food and once even taking off her coat and giving it away. She loved to do crafts, painting, crocheting, sewing, building wooden crosses and bird houses; often giving many as gifts.

A viewing service will be held from 12:00-4:00 pm on May 21, 2020 at Castillo Mission Funeral Home with a prayer service at 3:00 pm.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11:00 am on May 22, 2020 at Mayfield Park Baptist Church. Pastor Don Michael Sutton will officiate. Flowers, condolences, and donations may be offered at 1st Memorial Park at 20567 TX-16, Von Ormy, TX 78073.