Ethelvina Cantu Peña

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Ethelvina, who left this world on February 25, 2025 surrounded by love. She was a woman of incredible strength, unwavering love, and boundless kindness—values she carried through every stage of her life and instilled in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

More than a mother, she was my greatest teacher. She shaped who I am, instilling in me a deep love for education and the understanding that showing up, caring, and loving are the foundations of a meaningful life. 

Her resilience was unmatched; no matter the challenges she faced, she never gave up. Her strength was quiet yet powerful, a testament to the kind of woman she was—one who met life’s hardships with grace and perseverance.

Ethelvina believed in the power of love and the importance of family. She led by example, teaching through her actions that kindness and compassion matter. Her legacy lives on not just in the lessons she taught, but in the love she poured into the lives of those she touched.

One of the greatest expressions of her love was through her cooking. She found joy in feeding others, making sure that no one ever left her home without a full heart and a full plate. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and comfort—a reflection of the incredible woman she was. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she poured endless love into them, always ready with a meal and a smile.

Now, she is reunited with one of her greatest loves, her son, Isaac, who passed away in 2001. Though our hearts ache with her absence, we find comfort in knowing that they are together again, watching over us with love. She is survived by her daughter, Dinorah Couvillon, and son-in-law, Marc Couvillon; her cherished grandchildren, Selina N Rodriguez, Roel I Rodriguez, Sofia L Couvillon, and Isaac E Couvillon; as well as multiple great-grandchildren who will continue to carry forward her legacy of love, strength, and generosity.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will always be with us, guiding us in the lessons she so beautifully lived.

A visitation for Ethelvina will be held on Sunday March 2, 2025, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary from 5 PM to 9PM with the holy rosary to be recited at 7 PM. A Mass of Christian burial will take place at St. Gertrude's Catholic Chruch the following day March 3, 2025, at 11 AM, with a burial to follow at Santa Gertrudis Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you honor her memory by showing up for those you love, sharing kindness, and continuing to learn—just as she would have wanted.

Rest in peace, Mom. Your love, your strength, and your lessons will live on forever in our hearts.