Elena Vela

Elena Cuellar Vela went to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the age of 87, peacefully surrounded by her family.  She was born on January 13, 1935, to Rafael and Teresa Cuellar. Elena worked for Riviera ISD for over 25 years before her retirement; she was best known for her dinner rolls, peach cobbler, and cinnamon rolls.  Elena never met a stranger; she was a woman of strong faith, attended church regularly, and loved listening to Christian music. She was a great provider, who wanted nothing but happiness for her family.  Elena was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend; and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Reynaldo Vela; oldest son, Joe Vela; grandchildren, Michael Bustoz and Tavin Parker; siblings, Rafael Cuellar, Jr. and Estella (Juan†) Guevara; son-in-law, Jesse Sanchez

Among those left to cherish her memory are her five children, Uvaldo (Josie) Vela, Norma (Moe) Robles, Ellie Jimenez, Susana (Sam) Trevino, and Reynaldo (Denise Lopez) Vela, Jr.; siblings, Lupita Cuellar, Johnny (Eva) Cuellar, Gloria (Ramiro) Garcia; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family will receive condolences on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM; with a holy rosary to be recited at 6:30 PM followed by a prayer service at 7:00 PM.  A chapel service will take place at 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 20, 2022, at Turcotte-Piper.  Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at Riviera Cemetery.