It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our sister, aunt, cousin, and loving friend, Ofelia.

Ofelia was born to her biological mother Juaquina Alvarado and father Isidro Garibay Sr. on September 14, 1926. They resided in San Antonio with her four siblings, Alfredo, Maria, and Olga. At the age of 8 her mother passed away. Later, her father Isidro married Feliz Beltran and they both created one big, blended family. Feliz and Isidro also had four children of their own: Isidro, Jr. (Izzy), Ramiro (Randy) Ernest (Neto), and Yolanda (Yolie). It would not be long before the older siblings grew up and joined the military during World War II. She adored her parents and would assist them when in need. For example, while mom and dad worked tirelessly, she cared for her younger siblings. She had a natural knack for it: she was humorous, witty, and loving. She loved her little brothers and sister so much and although she was a teenager herself, Ofelia didn't think twice about taking the role of big sister with grace. Ofelia was, indeed, born to help others. Her caregiving didn't stop at home, she worked at Our Lady of the Lake University Convent preparing food for the sisters. She would continue to help others throughout her life.

Ofelia aspired to be a nurse, so she took courses at Santa Rosa Nursing School in which she excelled but she selflessly put her career on hold to help the family with her younger siblings. One of the most remarkable things about Ofelia is that she didn't let not having a car stop her, so she rode the bus to help care for family members. What an angel. She also had a tough side to her too!  There was one important job that Ofelia took part in that not many people know about during World War II. She was employed making bombshell casings at the Frederick's building. She had shared that once the war was over, all the workers gathered and walked to the San Fernando Cathedral to give thanks to God. She enjoyed telling that story.

There were some tough times that Ofelia encountered but one thing that she could always rely on was her Garibay family. Although Ofelia didn't have children of her own, we were all her children. She is the Tia who listened without judgement, spoke without regret, and loved without conditions. This beautiful woman was thoughtful, and kind. In her last stage of life, Ofelia moved to an assistance living residence where she lived for over twenty years.  She enjoyed her time there and made many friends.  Everyone who crossed her path loved her, she never met a stranger.

Lastly, there are far too many people to thank that cared for and supported Ofelia during her last stage of life. These special people took time out of their busy schedules to tend to her daily. This is what family does, Ofelia was the perfect model of how it should be done. The family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice and their compassionate team that provided their kind and tender care. Very special thanks to Nurse Margie Cardenas, for the beautiful spirit she possessed for her patients as well as the dedicated care for our loved one.

Ofelia is preceded in death by her mother, Feliz Garibay; sisters, Maria Kirtley and Olga Trevino; and brothers, Alfredo Garibay, Randy Garibay, and Ernest Garibay. She will be loved and missed by her siblings, Isidro Beltran Garibay and Yolanda Garibay Perez (Martin), as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and countless extended family and friends.

Graveside services will take place at a later date.