Theresa Portela (68) passed away peacefully on May 4, 2021, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Theresa was born in San Antonio Texas on March 6, 1953.

Theresa previously worked at NISD as a school bus drier for 13 years; she absolutely adored all of her school children and they adored her. Theresa retired from bus driving from Methodist Hospital. Theresa was a beautiful woman of tremendous faith whom attended church regularly and was an active member. She loved to sing and dance, especially for the Lord. Theresa had a giving heart and gave as much as she could with what she had. She was a selfless and caring woman whom gave her time to anyone who needed her. Being the oldest of eight, she was a caregiver to all of her younger siblings. Her greatest achievement was being a wonderful mother to her one and only daughter whom she lived and breathed for. Theresa was an amazing grandmother to her two grandchildren. She loved to spend time talking with them, singing to them, and creating beautiful memories that will last forever in their hearts. Theresa loved to cook, she loved the Spurs, she loved to write poetry and paint, but most of all she loved her family dearly. Her faith in God was one of a kind. Theresa always stood out in a crowd and her absence will surely be felt.

Theresa is preceded in death by her father, Isidro B. Garza; brothers, Andrew Rodriguez, Joey Gonzales, and Salvador Gonzales.

Theresa is loved and will be missed by her daughter, Denise Portela; grandchildren, Allison Perea and Brooke Lauren Perea; her mother, Amelia G. Garza; sisters, Mary Jane Tijerina and Vangie Alvarado; brothers, Cipriano Gonzales and Arturo Gonzales; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family + friends.